Eucharistic Minister
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Eucharistic Ministers (Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion) serve the Church during Mass and with those who are sick and homebound. In doing so, the EM takes a place in a long line of disciples who enjoyed the company of Jesus, listened to his word, wondered about his commands, cared for his people, and did what he asked. If we participate fully, consciously, and actively in the liturgy, we cannot fail to be transformed, and do our part to transform the world we live in. As an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, you are called to do just that, and to help others do the same.
Our Lady of Comfort Ministry visits and brings Communion to those unable to come to Church. Learn more about this Ministry here: Our Lady of Comfort Ministry
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To start serving as a Eucharistic Minister, please send in this online registration: Join this Ministry
Eucharistic Ministers are scheduled for Sunday Masses using Ministry Scheduler Pro. Please review our Ministry Scheduling page for more information.
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This is a recording of the virtual workshop, "Preparing to Serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion," presented August 25, 2022, by Liturgical Training Publications.
Workshop Themes: 1) Called to serve 2) Theology and History 3) Spiritual preparations 4) Closing reflections
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APPROACHING THE ALTAR
When does the EM approach the Altar? Do they approach together?- The EM approaches the Sanctuary at the Lamb of God
- Bow in front of altar
- The EMs do not have to enter the Sanctuary at the same time
- At both churches, the EMs stand on the side of the Lectern facing the Altar
- The Deacon or EM Team Leader
RECEIVING COMMUNION- Sanitize hands
- The Priest distributes Communion to the EMs
- The EM consumes the Eucharist, sanitizes their hands, and then moves to their station.
FINDING YOUR STATION - There are 6 stations- 2 in front of the Altar (for the Deacon and the Priest)
- 2 EMs for the Host, facing each other at the right and left side of center aisle, in front of the 1st row of pews.
- 2 EMs for the Cup, at far sides, right and left
DISTRIBUTING HOLY COMMUNION
Can you break the host?- Yes
- The EM can break the host. If running out, share or break hosts, in quarters if need be
- Gently ask them to stop and consume before returning to their pew
- It is permitted. EM must sanitize after this person, and before the next.
- The EM distributes to the pews that are on their station side
- EM picks up the Host and consumes it, or give to the Priest who will consume it
- A simply blessing. Fr. Steve shared, “May God bless you always.”
RETURNING THE VESSELS (TO THE ALTAR)
What is the practice for returning the ciborium to the altar?- Place it on the Altar or give it to the Priest
Who brings the Eucharist back to the tabernacle?- The Deacon, Priest or EM returns the Eucharist to the tabernacle
- St. Agnes - If the EM returns ciborium to the tabernacle - RETURN THE KEY TO THE ALTAR
RETURNING TO YOUR SEAT
Are the EMHCs supposed to wait in the sanctuary until after the ciborium is reposed in the tabernacle?- No. Once the ciborium is returned to the Altar, leave the Sanctuary, bow before the Altar and return to the pew
- The EMs may return individually or together as they leave the Altar, however they do not wait for one another.
Is there an expectation to help wash vessels after Mass?- Yes, please check in at the Sacristy to see if washing the vessels is well covered. Many hands make quick work!
- It is okay for the EM to fill a pyx (taking Host from the tabernacle)
- Pyx are located in drawer under counter in Sacristy
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We are committed to doing our part to ensure a safe environment for all. For the Eucharistic Minister this involves Protecting God's Children awareness training for the prevention of abuse; and an annual submission of a CORI form.
Please thoroughly review the Safe Environment Page
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