ST. JUDE PARISH
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion "I am the bread of life, whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst" The role of the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is extremely important during the celebration of the Eucharist. The USCCB has instituted strict requirements of individuals who are commissioned to this very important liturgical role. As one is called to serve, this ministry requires you to grow in confidence, dexterity, agility, and most of all, reverence in handling the sacred species of the consecrated Body and Blood of our Lord, Jesus Christ. Extraordinary ministers are hand-picked by the priest and lay minister assigned to coordinate the ministry Some of the practical training from the pastoral leadership of the parish include how to receive Holy Communion under both forms of consecrated bread and wine. The should receive sufficient spiritual, theological, and practical preparation to fulfill their role with knowledge and reverence. A good minister must be spiritually ready meaning, must be free from any mortal sin, living in good standing with the Catholic Church and must be ready to serve whether or not, scheduled to serve on that particular time. Good training is required on how to distribute the host and administer the cup to each communicant; how to cleanse the vessels once they have been purified by the ordained minister; how to lock the tabernacle; and what to do when an accident happens with the Eucharistic species. Special training is also required of the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the sick and the homebound, such as: how to carry the pyx reverently as reflected by the minister's personal style. Each sacred vessel, blessed for service in the divine worship, deserves special respect of every extraordinary minister and communicant. How to hold the vessels reverently by frequent practice and being mindful of extreme care. are woven in the minister's readiness and focus in performing this sacred task. A good extraordinary minister must have a special love and devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Mary. Going to confession at least once a month on First Fridays is an excellent practice of a minister to keep him focused on maintaining spirituality and free from sin in performing this sacred task. |