In every celebration of the Eucharist, there should be a sufficient number of ministers of Holy Communion so that it may be distributed in a reverent and orderly manner. Bishops, priests and deacons distribute Holy Communion in virtue of their office as ordinary ministers of the Body and Blood of the Lord.  If such ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are not present, the priest may call upon extraordinary ministers to assist him, i.e., suitable members of the lay faithful who have been duly appointed to assist in this liturgical function.

Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion have the privilege of serving the Eucharist at Mass and to the sick in their homes. They assist the Priest in preparing and distributing the bread and wine to the people during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. This involves bringing the hosts from the tabernacle to the altar after the Lamb of God is sung or spoken. They stand at the altar with the Priest, pray with the assembly and reverently distribute the bread or wine to the people.

These extraordinary ministers also take the Eucharist to believers who are unable to attend Mass due to illness or disability.

The extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion have special instruction before they perform this ministry. Preparation for becoming a Special Minister of the Eucharist will be provided as new volunteers express their interest.  For information about Special Ministers of Holy Communion for the Sick and Homebound or for information on Special Ministers for the Eucharist within the Mass call Sister Loretta Primus at 302-829-8183.