Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Currently, distribution of Holy Communion is limited to our priests due to health and safety protocols. When we have big celebrations, we may ask Extraordinary Ministers to assist our priests.
In every celebration of the Eucharist, there should be a sufficient number of ministers of Holy Communion so that it may be distributed in a reverent and orderly manner. Bishops, priests and deacons distribute Holy Communion in virtue of their office as ordinary ministers of the Body and Blood of the Lord. (1) When the size of the congregation or the incapacity of the bishop, priest, or deacon requires it, the celebrant may be assisted by other bishops, priests, or deacons. If such ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are not present, “the priest may call upon extraordinary ministers to assist him, i.e., duly instituted acolytes or even other faithful who have been deputed for this purpose. In case of necessity, the priest may also depute suitable faithful for this single occasion (GIRM 162).”
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist are appointed by the Pastor with the approval of the Bishop. The members of this sacred ministry assist with the distribution of the Body and Blood of our Savior during Mass, bring Eucharist to our sick/shut-in parishioners, go to our local nursing home and bring Eucharist to Catholics who are in a medical center.
Training is provided once a year usually in the fall.