The Acts of Convention

Resolved, That this 65th General Convention commend to the consideration of the several diocesan bishops the authorization of Interim Eucharistic Fellowship events in their dioceses, conforming to the guidelines appended hereto.

Guidelines for Interim Eucharistic Fellowship

(adopted by the House of Bishops, Oaxtepec, Mexico, October 1974)

Whereas, A responsible consequence of our Church's commitment to the Unity of Christ's Church requires experience in eucharistic fellowship with others who seek this same unity with us, and

Whereas, The churches participating in the Consultation on Church Union have recommended a program for local eucharistic celebration involving churches whose common commitment provides a community base for that program, known as "Interim Eucharistic Fellowship" and therefore be it

Resolved, that the House of Bishops commend to the several dioceses of this Church participation in local expressions of Interim Eucharistic Fellowship in accordance with the guidelines proposed by the Joint Commission on Ecumenical Relations as follows:

1. Participation by any Episcopal congregation must be authorized by the Bishop after he has determined that the program conforms to the "Guidelines for Interim Eucharistic Fellowship."
2. The COCU liturgy, approved by the General Convention, will be used for the Eucharist.
3. The elements of bread and wine ordained by Christ shall be used for the Holy Communion and provision will be made for the reverent disposal of that which remains after the Communion.
4. An Episcopal priest will be involved as a con-celebrant at the Holy Table at each of the Eucharists.
5. A program involving an agreed upon number of eucharists within a specific period should involve the congregations of the participating churches. These should be preceded by appropriate gatherings for joint study and worship.
6. An evaluation of the program approved initially by the Bishop be made with the Bishop involved, or one he has designated, before Interim Eucharistic Fellowship extends beyond the plan initially approved by the Bishop.