ABSTRACT
Extended communion has been used as a solution for the increasing shortage of ordained ministers; it is not, however, without critics who identify theological problems with its usage. In particular, the three concepts of the Divine Presence, of celebration, and of the communion of the faithful raise questions for congregations utilizing extended communion. Furthermore, the use of lay ministers in the service of extended communion can lead to isolation of the parish priest as well as high-lighting issues about lay presidency. This article discusses these themes in the context of an evaluation of an extended communion scheme in a parish of the Church of England. While there is some evidence for the isolation of the rector, congregational perceptions make no distinction between extended and holy communion services. In the case of home (extended) communions, however, the absence of worship space plays an important part – something about which the literature is silent.
