The members of this ministry assist the Presider in administering the Eucharist to parishioners during parish liturgies. Safe Environment training is required. Eucharistic ministers may also distribute the Eucharist to the hospitalized, home-bound, and those residing in our local nursing homes with additional training to become a Minister to the Sick.
The administration of Holy Communion at Mass is an important liturgical ministry. In addition to bringing the sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ to the people of God, Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist witness faith in the real presence of Christ by their actions and by the dignity and reverence with which they treat the Body of Christ.
Those who fulfill this ministry are to be fully initiated, active members of a parish. They should be of sufficient age (at least 15 years old), maturity and temperament to undertake this ministry. They must have no impediment to receiving Holy Communion and participating in the sacramental life of the Church. Candidates should be physically able to exercise this ministry.
Preparation for this ministry includes:
- Formal instruction through the Office of Liturgy by attending a diocesan EMHC workshop. The EMHC workshop includes topics on liturgical ministry the Mass, theology of the Eucharist, the Paschal Mystery, and a review of diocesan guidelines.
- Onsite parish instruction as to local customs and responsibilities, hands-on practice, knowledge, and understanding of parish procedures and responsibilities and an opportunity for sharing with others in the ministry.