Epiclesis service:  “The Epiclesis Service” which we hold on Saturday evenings is a testimony to the uniting power of the Holy Spirit.  Through a unique partnership arrangement, this ecumenical service combines congregations from Chapel Hill UMC and the Church of the Resurrection  in one common worship experience.  The service is both ancient and contemporary:  ancient by using the ancient content, actions and vestments of the early church; and, contemporary through the relevant proclamation of the good news of God’s grace to all.  Our times together are relaxed and friendly, along with times of solemn, joyful, passionate and reflective moments on life.  Celebrate with us, an “epiclesis service” is to be experienced rather than described. 

The Greek word  means “to call upon”.  Traditionally, it has referred to the prayer “calling upon” the Holy Spirit to santify the gifts of bread and wine in the Lord’s Supper.  It is the prayer to the Holy Spirit asking that the bread and wine “be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him”.  The epiclesis in Holy Communion for us at Church of Resurrection also reminds us of our need to call on the Holy Spirit at all times and experience his presence among us, both when we gather to worship and when we depart to serve.

We practice an open communion.  All are welcome to participate.  We have two stations for taking communion.  The first station uses grape juice and is intended only for those taking communion by intinction (i.e. dipping the bread/host into the cup).  The second station uses wine.  At this station the bread/host and the cup can be taken separately, although taken by intinction is approriate.   All are welcome to share in Holy Communion.