Last month the Synod accepted the view that it is permissible for a person other than a presbyter to administer the Lord’s Supper.

Synod agrees it is legal for deacons (ordained under the 1985 Canon) to assist the presbyter by administering the Lord’s Supper. No further authority is required other than their ordination.

While it is also permissible for lay persons to administer Communion, they would need an authority from the Archbishop to do so in a service of public worship.
It is unlikely the Archbishop will issue any licences for lay administration.

Rectors of parishes may, in my opinion, give approval to their deacons to administer the Lord’s Supper, though it would be prudent to consult their parish council, to avoid unnecessary offence.

It is the opinion of the synod that diaconal administration is a good practice, appropriate to the office of a deacon and consistent with Scripture and the Constitution of the Anglican Church in Australia.

In my opinion our decision is a win for an expanded diaconate. This has many ramifications for enhanced gospel ministry across our Diocese, both in terms of women’s ministry and missional church planting.