EXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF HOLY COMMUNION

This ministry exists to assist the priests of the parish in the distribution of Communion. Many members of the group also take Communion to the homebound, so that these parishioners may partake of Holy Communion at least once a week.

Eucharistic Ministers serve at Mass on Sundays and Holy Day's of Obligation throughout the year. Ministers to homebound also take Holy Communion to each person on their calling list, usually 3-5 people, about once a month.

There are currently 6 teams of Eucharistic Ministers to the homebound, each team consisting of 4 to 6 people.

Additionally, there is a large roster of people who minister exclusively at Mass, usually once a month. A coordinator schedules all of the assignments.

With the shortage of priests, the laity is needed to assist where possible in the mission of the Church. One of the Corporal Works of Mercy (to visit the sick) is borne out by making Holy Communion available by those unable to attend Mass.

By taking them communion, sharing some of the scripture readings and or homily for that Sunday, giving them a copy of the church bulletin, and engaging in small talk and listening to their concerns, they are connected to the parish community even though they cannot be present physically.

With the increase in parish sizes and limited number of priests, help is need to distribute Holy Communion in large parishes so that part of the service does not become disproportionately long relative to the other parts of the mass.

Most Ministers commit to a two-year term of service, renewable at the discretion of the Pastor. Indoctrination and training are required. A bi-annual meeting is required to update and renew each individual’s commitment to the ministry. There are no dues associated with this ministry.