Liturgical Ministries: Eucharistic Minister

The Ministry of Eucharistic Minister

The formation of the People of God and the ministers of the altar must, therefore, be unlike any other educational endeavor. Liturgical formation "must above all be spiritual," through a familiarity with the rites and patterns of the prayer of the Mass is essential. Good liturgy is the product not so much of a well-known rubric as much as a well-trained heart. (Introduction to the Order of Mass).

In this ministry, you must be examples of Christian living in faith and conduct; you must strive to grow in holiness through this sacrament of unity and love. Remember that, though many, we are one body because we share the one bread and one cup. As ministers of Holy Communion be, therefore, especially observant of the Lord's command to love your neighbor. For when he gave his body as food to his disciples, he said to them: "This is my commandment, that you should love one another as I have loved you." (Book of Blessings #1875).

The above paragraphs highlight the Church's vision of Eucharistic ministry. The ongoing renewal of the liturgy invites us to a deeper understanding of the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection and its connection to our daily lives. In the spirit of that continuing renewal, we present the following Questions and Answers regarding the role of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Mass.

Who is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass?

It is easier to answer that question first by stating who are the ordinary ministers of communion. Bishops, priests and deacons, by virtue of their ordination, are the ordinary or usual ministers of communion at Mass. When the size of the assembly or the incapacity of the ordinary ministers requires it, the priest may call upon extraordinary ("out of the ordinary") ministers to assist him in the distribution of the Holy Communion.

What is the role of Extraordinary Ministers at Mass?

They approach the altar as the priest is receiving communion. They themselves receive communion from either the priest, deacon or one of the other ministers. Then they assist in the distribution of the Body and Blood to the assembly. After communion, they consume, at their place of distribution, any consecrated wine that remains in their cups. They may also assist with the purification of the vessels.

Who may become an Extraordinary Minister?

In the Archdiocese of Milwaukee, Archbishop Dolan has determined that all Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion must be fully initiated members of the Church; that is, they must have received the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and holy communion.

How does one become a Eucharistic Minister?

If you would be interested in serving in the Liturgical ministry of Eucharistic Minister, contact Scott Eakins, Director of Liturgy at 414/276-9814, ext 3117 or by « email ».

Training Materials

Cathedral Eucharistic Minister Handbook
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Handout: Eucharistic Ministry (Gabe Huck)
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Pod Cast of Cathedral Eucharistic Minister Training
Coming Soon!

Census Form

Minister's Census Form
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Liturgical Ministers' Roster
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Schedules

December 2011-January 2012
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February - March 2012
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