Whenever there is a real and sufficient need for the celebrating priest to have assistance distributing the most precious body and blood of our Lord at Mass, he is permitted, in the absence of other priests and deacons, to make use of Extraordinary Ministers of Communion.  The ordinary minister of communion is always and only the bishop, priest, and deacon.  For this reason anyone else who distributes communion is known as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMC). 

The United States Bishops advise that "Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion should receive sufficient spiritual, theological, and practical preparation to fulfill their role with knowledge and reverence."  Furthermore, they "should show the greatest reverence for the Most Holy Eucharist by their demeanor, their attire, and the manner in which they handle the consecrated bread or wine."  Indeed, there is no greater privilege than to handle the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist.  Should someone mistreat or disbelieve in this sacrament, they would be wise to cease their involvement as an EMC until all difficulties are overcome.

The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion assists the celebrating priest at the weekend and weekday Masses as well as on Holy Days of Obligation.  Some EMCs also choose to participate in the Outreach Ministry and volunteer to bring the Holy Communion to patients at the Elliot Hospital, Catholic Medical Center and local nursing homes.  Many EMCs also visit many parishioners who cannot leave their homes but who appreciate receiving Holy Communion on a weekly or monthly basis. Distributing Holy Communion to others, whether it be during Mass, in their homes, or at the hospital, is always an occasion of profound spiritual intimacy with our Lord and others.

If you are interested in becoming an EMC or would like more information on the role of the Extraordinary Minister of Communion please contact Fr. Chris or Derick Alexandre.