No, we're not banning ‘gluten-free’ bread or ‘non-alcoholic’ Communion wine

Contrary to recent reports following a question asked by a General Synod member, the Church of England is not banning ‘gluten-free’ wafers nor ‘non-alcoholic’ wine at Communion.

Church of England churches across the country routinely offer ‘gluten-free’ bread or ‘non-alcoholic’ wine at Holy Communion.

Many professional ecclesiastical suppliers have long provided wine or bread which may contain tiny traces of alcohol or gluten which can legitimately be considered non-alcoholic or gluten free.

Coeliac UK has a list of approved products.

We hope this helps clarify and avoid further confusion!