Purpose: To assist priests and deacons in distributing Holy Communion so that the Communion Rite is not unduly long. Being a Eucharistic Minister in the Catholic Church should be considered an honor because it allows lay people to directly participate in distributing the Body and Blood of Christ, the central sacrament of our faith, acting as a conduit to bring Jesus Christ to others.
Activities: Serving as “extraordinary ministers” (priests and deacons are “ordinary ministers”) of Communion at Sunday, holy day, and daily Masses by distributing the Precious Body and Blood to the congregation.
Time Commitment: Approximately one weekend Mass per month, or more frequently if desired. EMHCs normally meet once a year for spiritual renewal and for updated training.
Requirements: Must have received the sacraments of Communion and Confirmation in the Catholic Church; if married, must have been by a Catholic priest or deacon or subsequently convalidated; receive the sacrament of Reconciliation at least once a year; attend Mass every Sunday and holy days of obligation; live a life in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic faith; registered parishioner at St. Lawrence; attend a 90-minute training session.