Extraordinary Ministers of Communion

The Bishop of Covington commissions Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.  They  assist the priest with the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass in accordance with guidelines set forth by the Church and the Diocese.  They may also assist in the distribution of Holy Communion to the sick and homebound.

What are the qualifications to serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion?

The Pastor recommends the person to the Bishop, who in turn appoints them to a particular parish.  They must be fully initiated, mature, members of the Church, who by their actual Christian living shown that they have taken their faith seriously.  They should embody the Christian life of service, and be willing to grow in their love for the Eucharist.  Specifically:

1. Be Catholic, and have received all the sacraments of initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist) and at least 16 years of age.
2. Live his or her life in such a way that their love for the Eucharist is evident by their regular participant in the Eucharistic Liturgy.
3. Not labor under a canonical penalty whether imposed or declared (e.g. not be in an invalid marriage or be a laicized cleric).
4. Be adequately formed to carry out this ministry as the Church intends, and take part in continuing formation through parish and/or diocesan workshops and/or retreats.

What’s my first step in seeking commissioning as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion?

One who prayerfully discerns that they are called to this Ministry should contact Msgr Fosu or Fr. Jim