.png)
The Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at St. John the Evangelist Church play a crucial role in the liturgical and pastoral life of the parish. These ministers are lay members who are granted the special privilege of distributing Holy Communion during Mass and to the sick and homebound, under the guidance of the parish priest.
What is the Ministry of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion?
This ministry involves laypersons who are appointed to assist in distributing the Eucharist during Mass and to those who cannot attend due to illness or age. The role is a response to the need for a greater number of ministers due to the large size of the congregation or the unavailability of ordained clergy. It is a deeply respected position that requires a commitment to the faith and a reverence for the sacrament of the Eucharist.
Who is it for?
The role of an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is open to practicing Catholics at St. John the Evangelist Church who are in good standing with the Church. Candidates are typically expected to have a deep reverence for the sacrament, a desire to serve their community, and the ability to perform their duties with dignity and humility. This ministry is particularly suited to individuals who feel a calling to be more intimately involved in the liturgical functioning of the church.
Benefits of Joining
Serving as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion offers numerous spiritual and communal benefits:
- Spiritual Growth: Ministers experience a deepening of their own faith and a closer connection to the Eucharist.
- Service to the Community: This role provides a vital service to those who are unable to attend Mass, such as the sick and elderly, extending the reach of the sacramental life of the church into the wider community.
- Active Participation in Mass: Ministers play an integral part in the liturgy, which can enhance their overall experience of worship and participation in the church.