CTK Extraordinary Ministers

Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist

Are you called to this Extraordinary Ministry?

"When the size of the congregation or the incapacity of the bishop, priest, or deacon requires it, the celebrant may be assisted by other bishops, priests, or deacons. If such ordinary ministers of the Holy Communion are not present, "the priest may call upon extraordinary ministers to assist him, i.e., duly instituted acolytes or even other faithful who have been deputed for this purpose. In case of necessity, the priest may also depute suitable faithful for this single occasion (GIRM 162)." - USCCB

EM Schedule

Current EM Schedule

Contact Norm Reimers for questions/concerns:
661-399-0563 (H)
805-838-8298 (M)

An Extraordinary Ministry

The distribution of communion is ordinarily a function of the Priest during the Sacrifice of the Mass. When the necessity exists, EMs assist the priest in distributing the Eucharist to other members of the assembly during Mass.

EMs also take the Eucharist to those who are homebound or otherwise unable to attend Mass.

Diocesan Guidelines for Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist - Diocese of Fresno

Appropriate attire for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion:
Men - Dress shirt, tie, jacket or suit
Women - Modest dress or suit
The Ministers are to cleanse their hands in the sacristy before distributing Holy Communion.
After distribution of Holy Communion, the Ministers are to purify their fingers.
When carrying the Blessed Sacrament to someone in the home or to a rest home, the Minister must carry the Eucharist directly to the person and may not stop anywhere along the way (a Pyx must be used). The Minister is not allowed to keep the Blessed Sacrament at home, or retain it in any other place for any period of time, but must return the unused hosts to the tabernacle immediately (Canon 935).
Before being installed as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, the person must be properly trained, especially in the proper reverence, care and safety at all times of the Sacred Species.
In some parishes in the diocese, it has been observed that at times the sacred vessels have not been properly purified. The liturgical procedures for the purification of the sacred vessels must be an integral part of the preparation for Extraordinary Ministers and must be carefully observed.

Norm Reimers leads this ministry and is happy to answer any questions you may have.

Periodically reading through the EM GUIDE is recommended for all Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist.