Extra Ordinary Ministers

NAME OF SERVICE:	Eucharistic Ministers (Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion)
DESCRIPTION OF SERVICE:	Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are commissioned by the Bishop, only after referral by the parish priest. Candidates for the ministry are expected to undertake a programme of training organised by the diocese prior to being commissioned. Commissioned ministers have an important role to fulfil. Under the direction of the parish priest they may be authorised to: assist with the timely and reverent distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ during the celebration of Holy Mass, when there are not sufficient ordained ministers present. assist the ordained ministers in ensuring that Holy Communion can be taken to the sick and housebound in their homes. expose and repose the Blessed Sacrament in the absence of a priest or deacon. As a condition of commissioning, ministers are expected to attend a renewal day each year run by or on behalf of the diocese.
WHERE/WHEN?	Assisting with the distribution of the Blessed Sacrament at Holy Mass is carried out in church, mainly at week-ends and on Holy Days of Obligation etc. The ministry is also carried out in the homes of the sick and housebound on a weekly basis when authorised by the parish priest, who must be the first to be informed of a home visit request before arrangements can be made.
HOW CAN I BE INVOLVED?	If you feel Almighty God is calling you to this wonderful ministry, please speak with the parish priest who will be able to explain the next steps, including the commissioning process.
HOW CAN I GET HELP FROM THE SERVICE?	If you are sick or housebound and wish to receive Holy Communion in your home each week please contact the parish priest in the first instance through the parish administration suite so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Parishioners who are hospitalised should let the parish priest know at the earliest opportunity so he can ensure appropriate spiritual support, including access to the Blessed Sacrament, is maintained.
CONTACT DETAILS:	Fr. Philipp Ziomek through the parish administration suite (0115 9268288)