Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Sharing Christ with the Faithful

Serving as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion in All Saints Parish is more than the physical act of helping the priest distribute the Eucharist at Mass, or taking Communion to the sick or homebound.

“Theologically, you are assisting in people receiving our Lord — Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity — and it’s an awesome responsibility and privilege to offer Communion to your brothers and sisters,” says Deacon Michael Bolesta, Director of Pastoral Ministries.

There have been 120 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion in our parish, but the pandemic may have caused some to be inactive. Plans are underway to build up the number of active ministers.

“We definitely need more,” Deacon Bolesta says.

The duties for those serving weekend Masses and weekday Masses vary slightly. During the weekend Masses, two persons from all those serving that Mass prepare the altar for Mass by setting up the needed vessels, making sure the hosts are in place and in good supply. After Mass, the vessels are washed according to protocol and put away. On weekdays, there are only two Extraordinary Ministers, and those two take care of the preparation and cleaning.

Those who wish to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion must be at least 16 years of age, practicing his or her faith, and must have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Training is held either on Monday evenings or on Saturdays.

“We go over the theology of what the Eucharist is, what happens in the Mass, and their role, the practical aspects of, how do you distribute Communion at Mass,” Deacon Bolesta says.

There is also training for the setup preparations and cleaning tasks, and for taking Communion to the homebound or sick in area facilities.

Trainees are encouraged to take part in Eucharistic Adoration, attend Mass frequently, and to pray about their planned ministry.

Not only will Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion help their fellow parishioners grow in their faith lives, but they will also experience that growth themselves. “Just being close to our Lord Jesus will deepen their faith life, and their awareness of His presence in the Holy Eucharist, and His presence when they receive Him,” Deacon Bolesta says.

Anyone interested in becoming an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, or who has questions about this ministry, may contact Patricia Haney, ministry coordinator at 972-896-2947, or triciahaney@gmail.com. Deacon Bolesta is also available to answer questions about the ministry at 972-778-0369.