Eucharistic Ministry

It is a privilege and sacred task to becom an Extraordinary minister of the Holy Eucharist and a blessing to those who are chosen. The ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are the priest and deacon. Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion may be appointed to facilitate the distribution of Holy Communion within Mass when there is a large number of communicants; and to allow for a more frequent, even daily, administration of Holy Communion outside of Mass to those impeded from attending Mass because of sickness or physical weakness whether at home or hospital.

Outside of Mass Administration of the Eucharist.

The Eucharist that is taken to the sick is to be carried in a blessed pyx, which should be placed in a burse, if possible, and carried on the person with utmost reverence. Extraordinary ministers while bearing the Eucharist should as a rule keep silence, pray, and be especially mindful of the sacred responsibility that has been entrusted to them. The Eucharist must be borne directly from Church to the house of the sick without interruption. Training is provided for all Eucharistic Ministers and instruction on how to administer Holy Communion outside the Sacrifice of the Mass is also provided.

To serve as in the Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministry, a person must:

- be practicing Catholics, distinguished in their Christian life, faith and morals;

- be at least 18 years old;

- have received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist and Matrimony (if married) ;

- demonstrate a belief and deep reverence for and devotion to the holy Eucharist as the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, truly present;

- possess the requisite abilities and temperament to carry out their assigned duties.