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Eucharistic Ministers Ministry
The distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ during the Mass is truly a ministry to the People of God. All ministers of Holy Communion should show the greatest reverence for the most holy Eucharist by their demeanor, their attire, and the manner in which they handle the consecrated bread or wine.
Women and men who are eighteen years or older and fully initiated i.e., confirmed, are eligible for this ministry. They should be Catholics who sincerely try to live the Gospel message in their communal and individual lives. They should participate in the Sunday Eucharist regularly and practice their faith. In addition, they should be willing and able to carry out the ministry on behalf of the community.
It is recommended that a term limit of three years be followed, to enable others to serve in this ministry. It is appropriate that each member of the parish participate in only one ministry at a time, to encourage more people to undertake liturgical ministries.
The extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion do not take part in the entrance procession. They should be seated in the congregation during Mass.
Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion approach the altar as the priest receives Communion. After the priest has concluded his own communion, he distributes Communion to the special ministers, assisted by the deacon, if present, and then hands the sacred vessels to them for distribution of Holy Communion to the people. The practice of extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion waiting to receive Holy Communion until after the distribution of Holy Communion is not in accord with liturgical law.
Communion under both forms is given to the special ministers. Then, the ciborium or cup with purificator is handed to each minister. The ministers go to their respective stations for the administration of Communion to the congregation.
After the distribution of Communion, the extraordinary ministers of the cup consume what remains of the Precious Blood from their chalice of distribution. They then return the vessels to a side table or the altar, where the ordinary minister purifies them either during or after Mass. Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion do not assist in the purification of the vessels.
Following the distribution of Communion, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion return to their places within the assembly. The details of exactly when extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion approach the altar, as well as stations for the distribution of Communion under both kinds, must be determined in each parish.
Michael P. Ansich, Jr.
Eucharistic Minister Coordinator
St. Andrew Church
