• What is an Extraordinary Minister of Communion?

   

  A Communion Minister is a lay person who assists the ordained ministers in the distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ at Masses or Communion Services, and brings the Blessed Sacrament to the home- bound, the hospitalized, and other parishioners who cannot join the community at Sunday Mass.

   

  Why are they called Extraordinary Ministers?

   

  The ordinary ministers of the Eucharist are ordained clergy, bishops, priests and deacons. In 1966 Pope Paul IV approved the use of lay persons to assist in the distribution of the Eucharist by lay persons where there was either a shortage of ordained ministers or a great number of the faithful receiving communion.   These are in some places known by various titles. These individuals receive training and are commissioned for this purpose by their pastor for service in the parish to which they belong.

   

  What are the Responsibilities of a Communion Minister at the Divine Mercy of Our Lord Parish?
   

  As a Special or Extraordinary Minister of Communion at the Divine Mercy of Our Lord Parish, you will be assigned to a specific Mass on the weekend, serving usually only a couple of times a month. You will assist other lay ministers before Mass in setting out the linens, vessels, bread and wine for that Mass. You will assist the ordained ministers in distributing the Eucharist at communion time, and you will help clean the sacred vessels after the Mass. Some Extraordinary Ministers will serve during the week or on the weekend in taking the Blessed Sacrament to the home-bound or those in hospitals and nursing homes. 
   

  Is there Special Training to become an Extraordinary Ministers of Communion?

   

  Communion Ministers must attend a training session which is normally offered once or twice a year. Procedures are explained and questions are answered. Following training new ministers are commissioned at a Sunday Mass usually at the end of August or beginning of September.

  
  Who may Become a Communion Minister?

   

  Any Catholic who has received the three Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and First Holy Eucharist,) and is an active registered member of the parish, is eligible to train as an Extraordinary Minister of Communion. Many husband and wife couples serve together as teammates in this ministry.
  
  
  Del Florece
  Coordinator, Extraordinary Ministers of Communion

  Divine Mercy of Our Lord Parish