Who are Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion?
Formerly called Eucharistic Ministers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are acolytes or lay persons who have been commissioned to distribute Holy Communion. The term “extraordinary” distinguishes such a person from the ordinary (normal, regular) minister of Holy Communion, namely a bishop, priest or deacon.
What do Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion do?
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) present the Body and Blood of Christ to those who approach for Holy Communion. Their presence and prayerful preparation deepen the experience of the mystery of Christ present in this sacrament.
EMHCs are properly formed, instructed, and commissioned lay persons. EMHCs may be male or female. They should reflect the cultural diversity of their parish community. EMHCs are appointed for a given parish community to aid in the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass and to the sick and homebound when ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are unavailable.
Who can become an EMHC?
∙ A Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church and able to receive Eucharist. ∙ An individual of sufficient age and maturity to perform the duties of an EMHC at Mass or to the sick and homebound.
What are the responsibilities of an EMHC?
∙ Be an active participant during Mass
∙ Attend their scheduled masses
∙ Attend periodic EMHC training sessions and meetings
∙ Participate in ongoing faith formation
Who do I contact?
If you would like more information on becoming an EMHC, please contact Cindy Varenkamp at (219) 232-2781 email: cindyvarenkamp@gmail.com
Additional Resources:
For more information on the ministry of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, please visit the following links:
http://www.americancatholic.org/Newsletters/CU/ac1006.asp
http://www.therealpresence.org/eucharst/pea/bas_hsc.htm
http://isthmuscatholic.org/index.cfm?load=page&page=320