daren on they that minister the Holy Eucharist....

Last Thursday I attended an episcopal celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the college's chapel. As I sat there I was made to reflect on the question Cranmer and Augustine reflected on centuries ago.... does the worthiness or unworthiness of the minister affect the effect of the sacrament? As a point of reference to help to reflect on the question, I was led to the great 39 articles of the Protestant Church of England. It was crafted by Cranmer who did so under Calvinist influences.  Article 26 speaks to the matter:

"XXVI. Of the Unworthiness of the Ministers, which hinders not the effect of the Sacraments.
Although in the visible Church the evil be ever mingled with the good, and sometimes the evil have chief authority in the Ministration of the Word and Sacraments, yet forasmuch as they do not the same in their own name, but in Christ's, and do minister by his commission and authority, we may use their Ministry, both in hearing the Word of God, and in receiving the Sacraments. Neither is the effect of Christ's ordinance taken away by their wickedness, nor the grace of God's gifts diminished from such as by faith, and rightly, do receive the Sacraments ministered unto them; which be effectual, because of Christ's institution and promise, although they be ministered by evil men.

Nevertheless, it appertaineth to the discipline of the Church, that inquiry be made of evil Ministers, and that they be accused by those that have knowledge of their offences; and finally, being found guilty, by just judgment be deposed."

My original position which I have grown up with, has strong leanings towards Donatism. But After reflecting on the Eucharistic service and the article, my positions have been adjusted. Who IS really worthy? "All like lost sheep have gone astray and turn everyone to their own way". "Lord I am not worthy to receive thee..." (The Bible)

It is only through the grace and mercy of God that we are made worthy. "It is he who 'made' us and not we ourselves". If then one minister is removed from administering the sacraments because of evil then ALL need to be removed. At the same time I draw a line because there must be some discipline and order. If the 'wickedness' of the minister affects the life of the congregation then she should be removed. She is there to point beyond herself to that which ultimate concerns the people. When she fails to this because of her evil deeds then she should be 'disposed by just judgement'.