Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion serve Christ present in the gathered assembly by ministering his Body and Blood to their brothers and sisters.
In his instruction endorsing ministers of the Eucharist, Pope Paul VI described the Eucharist as a testament of Christ's "immense love," a "wonderful gift", "the greatest gift of all", and insisted that "the greatest reverence toward this sacrament be constantly maintained".
The primary responsibility of the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) is to distribute the Body and Blood of the Lord Jesus in the form of bread and wine during Mass, when there are not present enough ordinary ministers (bishop, priest, deacon). In order to do this, the EMHC must prepare by prayer, show reverence to the Eucharist elements, and treat each communicant with love and respect. Another responsibility is to purify and clean the patens (plates) and chalices (cups) after Mass. It is often necessary to consume left-over, excess consecrated wine and bread. Each EMHC should expect to be scheduled to serve two to three times per month. There is required training and renewal every two years.
Required: Safe Environment training and fingerprinting
Knowledge and skills required: (1) Knowledge & love of the Eucharist (2) Friendly, caring, warm personality (3) fully initiated Catholic.
For additional information or questions, please contact Carmelo Jimenez at carmelo.jimenez@dsj.org.