Communion

Holy Communion is at the heart of our worship at St James the Less and St Barnabas. This page explains who is welcome to receive it, what happens at the altar rail, and how baptism and confirmation fit in — so that you know what to expect before you come.

Gluten-free wafers and a non-alcoholic alternative to wine are available at every Communion. The gluten-free wafers are kept in their own separate pyx so that they do not come into contact with the ordinary wafers. The alternative to wine is a non-alcoholic fruit drink rather than alcohol-free wine, which can be too close to the real thing for anyone who struggles with alcohol. You only need to ask — a word before the service or at the rail is enough.

Who can receive Communion

If you have been baptised and you receive Communion in your own church, of whatever denomination, you are welcome to receive with us. You do not need to be a member here, and nobody will ask you questions at the rail.

Children are very welcome to come up to the rail with their families. If you would like to talk about your child receiving Communion, please have a word with Revd Mark — we are always glad to talk it through.

If you have not been baptised, or you are not sure, or you would simply rather not receive today, please come up for a blessing. Cross your arms over your chest, with your hands resting on your shoulders, and the priest will know — or simply say so when you reach the rail. Everyone is welcome to come forward, and nobody is looking.

At the altar rail

When it is time, come forward and kneel or stand at the rail, whichever is easier. Hold out your hands, one resting on the other, and the priest will place the wafer in them. The wine is then offered from the chalice.

If you would rather not drink from the cup, you can receive the bread alone — that is still receiving Communion in full.

Baptism

Baptism and christening are two words for the same thing. It is how someone becomes a Christian and a member of the Church, and we baptise babies, children and adults. Baptisms are always free.

→ Enquire about a baptism or christening

Filling in the form does not book a date. We will be in touch to arrange a time to meet, talk it through and agree a date together.

Confirmation

Confirmation is when someone who has been baptised affirms that faith for themselves, and the bishop prays for them and lays hands on them. Many people are confirmed as teenagers or adults, and it is never too late. An adult who has not been baptised can be baptised and confirmed at the same service.

If you have been baptised but never confirmed, and would like to be, we would love to talk with you. The bishop holds confirmation services for the churches of our deanery; the next is on Sunday 22 November 2026 at 3.00pm at St Clement’s, Leigh-on-Sea.

Talk to us

For anything on this page, please contact Revd Mark Smeed, Minister of St James the Less and St Barnabas, on 01268 211009.