Holy Communion

Communion-A-6-19-16

Rite I liturgy is used at the 8 a.m. Sunday and 5:30 p.m. Wednesday celebration of Holy Communion, while the Rite II liturgy is utilized at the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. Although the structure of Rite I and Rite II are essentially the same, the options and requirements of the rites differ in certain respects. One of the most noticeable differences is in the language. Rite I reflects the language and piety of the Elizabethan era and the early Episcopal Church. Rite II, which became part of the Book of Common Prayer in 1979, reflects more fully the influence of the liturgical movement and contemporary theology, including more inclusive references. Whether you prefer the “old” rite or the “new” one is a matter of personal preference.