Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion

An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) is a lay Catholic who has been called by the Church to assist with the reverent distribution of Holy Communion when there is a genuine pastoral need. The word extraordinary is important because it distinguishes this ministry from the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion, who are bishops, priests, and deacons. EMHCs assist only when the number of communicants is large or when an ordained minister is unavailable or unable to distribute Communion efficiently.

What Does an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion Do?

An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion may:

• Assist in distributing the Body (and, where offered, the Blood) of Christ during Mass.
• Bring Holy Communion to the sick, homebound, hospitalized, or those in nursing homes.
• Help ensure that those unable to attend Mass remain united with the parish community through the Eucharist.
• Handle the Blessed Sacrament with the utmost reverence, following the liturgical norms of the Church and the Diocese.

This ministry is not simply about performing a task. It is a ministry of service that reflects Christ’s love for His people.

Why Is This Ministry Important?

Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the true Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ. Because of this belief, those who assist with Holy Communion are entrusted with one of the Church’s most sacred responsibilities.

An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion serves by:

• Helping the faithful receive Jesus in the Eucharist with dignity and reverence.
• Bringing Christ’s presence to those who are sick or homebound.
• Demonstrating the Church’s care for every member of the parish, especially those who cannot be physically present at Mass.
• Supporting the priest and deacon during the celebration of the Eucharist when assistance is needed.

Every minister should approach this role with humility, prayer, and a deep devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.

Qualifications

According to the Diocese of Grand Rapids, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion should:

• Be a baptized and confirmed Catholic in full communion with the Church.
• Be at least 18 years old (with limited exceptions for Catholic high schools).
• Live a mature Christian life that reflects faith, charity, moral integrity, and devotion to the Eucharist.
• Receive both diocesan and parish formation before serving.

Training in the Diocese of Grand Rapids

The Diocese of Grand Rapids requires all new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to complete two levels of formation:

1. Diocesan Formation
   • Offered through the Diocese’s Office for Worship.
   • Covers the theology of the Eucharist, diocesan norms, and the spiritual meaning of the ministry.
   • Training sessions are offered several times each year at locations throughout the diocese.
2. Parish Formation
   • After completing diocesan training, candidates receive additional instruction at their own parish.
   • This includes parish procedures, liturgical practices, and, for those serving the sick, practical training and mentoring before receiving their mandate.

Where to Register

The Diocese posts current training dates and registration information on its Office for Worship webpage:

Diocese of Grand Rapids Office for Worship – Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

If you are a parishioner at St. Michael the Archangel, speak with Father Mike or the parish office first. Your pastor discerns who is called to this ministry and will guide you through the diocesan registration process.

A Ministry of Humble Service

An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is not recognized because of status or honor, but because of a willingness to serve Christ and His Church. Those called to this ministry are entrusted with a sacred responsibility: to handle the Blessed Sacrament with reverence, to serve God’s people with charity, and to help bring the gift of the Eucharist to all who hunger for Christ’s presence.

“Whoever serves me must follow me, and where I am, there also will my servant be.” (John 12:26)

Questions? Call Patty Ingram