The divine service is intended to strengthen hope in the imminent return of Christ and to prepare the believers for the appearing of the Lord. In the divine service, the congregation experiences the mystery, of an encounter between God and man at the altar, which is always new. (CNAC 12.1.5)

As the focal point of the divine service experience, it is important for us to approach the altar, physically and in our attitude, with reverence and holiness. Over the years, some understandings of the space and the events that take place here have evolved. I’d like to bring some clarity on these updates now:

In general, it is not required for all of the ordained ministers to sit up at or behind the altar. Ministers can sit in the congregation, with their families, or participate in the choir. This gives the opportunity to receive the preached word and be able to see the officiant’s face, as well.

Particularly around the celebration of Holy Communion:

Only the ordained ministers who will be dispensing Holy Communion are required to come up and receive Holy Communion as the ministers. This is helpful in congregations with many priests, but perhaps only a few would actually serve Holy Communion to the congregation.

During the serving of Holy Communion, there is no need for a minister to ‘cover’ the altar and stand behind it. This is helpful for congregations with only a couple of ministers and perhaps need all available priestly ministries to serve Holy Communion.

Finally, at the conclusion of the officiant pronouncing the benediction, the congregation sings the threefold amen. At the conclusion of singing the “amen” is when the officiant should close the Bible on the altar.

Since our congregations have a variety of situations based on ministers and size, these clarifications are to provide the needed flexibility, while preserving the sanctity of these holy moments and this holy space.

Thank you for all that you do to serve the Lord by loving and caring for His people.