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Eucharistic Ministers

The role of the Eucharistic Minister, like that of all liturgical ministries, is more than simply a practical function. The action of ministering the Eucharistic body and blood of Christ is, above all, a service of love performed in faith for the good of the community. The minister's action is an invitation to share in the Eucharistic feast. We should be welcoming, open and affirming, each in our own way.

Eucharistic Ministers are generally scheduled one Liturgy every 4-6 weeks, with training provided for new ministers as needed. Please call the office or email us if you are interested in this ministry. New ministers are always welcome!

Common Questions and Answers

    What if I am scheduled as an Eucharistic Minister but can not make it?

      It is your responsibility to find a substitute from the list of Eucharistic Ministers. If this fails, call the office for help.

    Posture.

      It is important for all liturgical ministers to observe the following:

    • Walk, do not rush.
    • When hands are not in use, keep them folded in a way that is comfortable for you.

    Is there ever a situation when I should refuse to give the consecrated bread or wine to someone?

      Never, even if the person is wearing a button with which you do not agree (or which seems to disagree with Church teachings). Never.

    Expect the unexpected.

      Ministers of the consecrated bread may encounter:
       

    • Someone who snatches the consecrated bread from your hand or does not respond "Amen". Do not take it personally.
    • Someone who neither opens hands or mouth after you say "The Body of Christ". Say: "Which way would you like to receive?"

      Ministers of the consecrated wine may encounter:
       

    • Someone who seems able to but will not take the Cup from you. Say: "Would you like to take the Cup?"

    If I know people I'm about to minister the bread or cup to, is it OK to greet them by name, for example, "MayBelle, the Body of Christ" or "Floyd, the Body of Christ"?

      This practice is discouraged since the Eucharistic Minister is unlikely to know everyone by name and certainly would not know the names of visitors. Greeting some by name but not others creates and "in-group" - "out-group" atmosphere which works against our beliefs in the sacrament of unity.

    Couples.

      Some couples (married or otherwise) will want to receive the Eucharist standing next to each other in front of you. Minister the consecrated bread or wine to each of them in the usual way.

    Children.

      At times you may question whether a child is old enough to receive communion. If he/she seems to know what to do, minister the consecrated bread or wine. If in doubt, look for an older person with the child and ask. When ministering the consecrated wine to small children, it is best to steady the Chalice/Cup so that the child does not lose grasp of it.

    People with Disabilities.

      Be aware of people with disabilities who come to receive communion. (For example, a person may not be able to completely open one or both hands may still want to receive in the hand. A person with a cane may need help with the Cup.) The only rule is: Whatever seems most practical, convenient, and respectful of the person.

    Is it always safe to drink from the Cup?

      The American Medical Association was asked for its opinion and gave this answer:

        "As far as we know, there is no scientific evidence of the transmission of disease to communicants using a common cup. The alcoholic content of the wine plus the hygienic practice of wiping the cup and turning it to a new position for each communicant seems to remove any danger."

      It makes sense for a person with a heavy cold or other airborne illness to refrain from the Cup that day.

    What to do if I or the person or the person receiving drops the consecrated bread.

    • Say to the person: "Just a moment."
    • Pick up the consecrated bread, carry it to the alter, and place it on the corporal.
    • Continue to minister the Eucharist.

      There is no need to wipe the spot with water and a cloth.

    What to do if I or the person drips or spills from the Cup.

    • Say to the person: "Just a moment."
    • Set the Chalice/Cup and purificator on the alter.
    • Take purificator from the credence table and wipe the area where the consecrated wine has been spilled.
    • Continue to minister the consecrated wine.

    How do I venerate the Eucharist reserved in the tabernacle?

      The custom is the Western Church is to genuflect immediately after opening the tabernacle door and immediately before closing it.

 

 

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Last Updated October 22, 2002