Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Welcome to our page for Extraordinary Ministers of the Holy Eucharist. You may be asking yourself, “What is a Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion?” The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops explains it best:
“In every celebration of the Eucharist, there should be a sufficient number of ministers of Holy Communion so that it may be distributed in a reverent and orderly manner. Bishops, priests and deacons distribute Holy Communion in virtue of their office as ordinary ministers of the Body and Blood of the Lord. (1) When the size of the congregation or the incapacity of the bishop, priest, or deacon requires it, the celebrant may be assisted by other bishops, priests, or deacons. If such ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are not present, “the priest may call upon extraordinary ministers to assist him, i.e., duly instituted acolytes or even other faithful who have been deputed for this purpose. In case of necessity, the priest may also depute suitable faithful for this single occasion (GIRM 162).” (USCCB)
View More About Eucharistic Ministers:
We welcome and invite you to explore the Lord’s calling to this glorious ministry. There are several steps that will be required as you begin this journey.
To begin the application process, you must:
• be a confirmed Catholic, living in harmony with the teachings of the Church and be able to receive the Eucharist.
• be involved in ministry at our parish for a year.
• fill out the application form and you must be approved to begin training by the pastor.
Practicum Sessions: These sessions are not for people who need their introductory training class. These classes are for existing ministers only and it is required that each minister attends one class per year.
Continued Education Hours: We require 4 hours each year. As a reminder, these can be earned at bible study gatherings, local and out of town conferences, Father Jude sessions, Los Angeles Congress, and other religious education gatherings.
Sacristan and Lead EM Training: Scheduled as needed
Proper EM Blessing Procedure
Official Diocesan Guideline For Eucharistic Ministers
If you have comments, suggestions, or questions, you can call the Parish office at 661-327-4734 for immediate responses. You can also send us an email. Messages are checked on a weekly basis.