Who can assist the pastor in communion?

Communion is one of the responsibilities and duties of a pastor.  However, the pastor may "train deacons and lay members to serve the consecrated communion elements.” 
(From The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church — 2004, paragraph 340.2a5. Copyright © 2004 by The United Methodist Publishing House. Used by permission.)

During the worship service, “lay persons as well as other clergy may assist the pastor in giving the bread and cup.”
(From The United Methodist Book of Worship. Copyright © 1992 by The United Methodist Publishing House. Used by permission.)

The official statement on communion, This Holy Mystery: A United Methodist Understanding of Holy Communion, explains, "The Communion elements are consecrated and consumed in the context of the gathered congregation. The Table may be extended, in a timely manner, to include those unable to attend because of age, illness, or similar conditions. Laypeople may distribute the consecrated elements in the congregation and extend them to members who are unavoidably absent (BOD; ¶¶ 340.2.a and 1117.9). An elder or deacon should offer appropriate training, preparation, and supervision for this important task."

This Holy Mystery: A United Methodist Understanding of Holy Communion Copyright © 2003, 2004 The General Board of Discipleship of The United Methodist Church, PO Box 340003, Nashville, TN 37203-0003 (800-972-0433).

Learn more about Communion