Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Serving Christ in the Eucharist. Sharing His presence with our parish family.
About the Ministry
The Holy Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith. At the celebration of the Holy Mass, we encounter Jesus Christ, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priest and deacon in the distribution of Holy Communion when pastoral need requires their assistance. Through this ministry, lay members of the faithful serve the parish community with reverence, humility, and devotion to the Most Holy Eucharist.
This is a special responsibility within the liturgical life of the Church. Those who serve are entrusted with assisting in the distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ and are called to approach this ministry with prayerful preparation and deep respect for the sacredness of the Eucharist.
What Do Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Do?
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist with the distribution of the Eucharist during Mass when called upon by the priest. Their responsibilities may include:
- Assisting the priest and deacon with the distribution of Holy Communion.
- Distributing the Body of Christ to the faithful.
- Distributing the Precious Blood when offered at Mass and when assigned.
- Handling the sacred vessels with reverence and care.
- Following the prescribed procedures for the distribution and care of the Blessed Sacrament.
- Maintaining a prayerful and reverent presence throughout the liturgy.
Extraordinary Ministers serve in support of the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion, who are bishops, priests, and deacons. Their assistance is provided when the needs of the celebration require it.
A Ministry of Reverence and Faith
Serving as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is more than carrying out a practical responsibility during Mass. It is a ministry rooted in faith in the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
Those who serve are encouraged to cultivate a strong personal devotion to the Eucharist, participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church, and approach their ministry with humility and reverence.
Through this service, ministers help the faithful receive the Eucharist in a dignified and orderly manner while deepening their own appreciation for the gift of Christ’s presence.
Who Can Serve?
Those interested in becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion should be practicing Catholics who demonstrate a sincere faith, reverence for the Eucharist, and a willingness to serve the parish community.
Prospective ministers must meet the applicable requirements of the Diocese of Phoenix and receive the appropriate parish approval and preparation before serving.
Additional sacramental, formation, and Safe Environment requirements may apply. Please contact the parish office for information about current eligibility requirements.
Formation and Training
Those selected for this ministry receive spiritual, theological, and practical preparation to help them serve with confidence and reverence.
Preparation includes developing an understanding of the Church’s teaching on the Eucharist, learning the proper procedures for distributing Holy Communion, and becoming familiar with the responsibilities and expectations of the ministry.
Ministers are also expected to follow diocesan guidelines and parish instructions concerning the handling of the sacred vessels and the distribution of Holy Communion.
Serving at St. Clement of Rome
Our Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion play an important role in supporting the celebration of the Holy Mass at St. Clement of Rome.
Through their willingness to serve, they help ensure that the distribution of Holy Communion is carried out with reverence, dignity, and care.
Those serving in this ministry may also have the opportunity to explore service to parishioners who are unable to attend Mass through our separate Ministers to the Homebound ministry.
Interested in Serving?
If you feel called to serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, we invite you to contact the parish office to learn more about the ministry, eligibility requirements, and upcoming formation opportunities.
Whether you are exploring this ministry for the first time or would like to learn more about serving at St. Clement of Rome, we would be glad to assist you.
May our service always reflect our love for Christ, truly present in the Most Holy Eucharist.
Contact Information
St. Clement of Rome Catholic Parish
15800 N. Del Webb Blvd.
Sun City, AZ 85351
Phone: (623) 974-5867
“I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever.”
John 6:51