an implantable device and method of cardiac stimulation that automatically verifies capture and a threshold effectiveness of stimulation of a cardiac stimulator . during predetermined periods , the device utilizes 2 or more pacing / sensing electrodes positioned within an electrically continuous area of the heart , wherein one electrode is used to provide a pacing stimulus while the other electrode or electrodes are used to verify capture or a threshold effective strength . a predetermined blanking period is provided to avoid detection of the electrical stimulus transmitted to one electrode from a pulse generator . after expiration of the predetermined blanking period the remaining electrodes detect depolarization of the surrounding tissue .