Ministers to the Homebound
Bringing Christ’s presence and the care of our parish family to those who cannot join us at Mass.
About the Ministry
Our parish family extends beyond the walls of our church. Some of our fellow parishioners, because of age, illness, disability, or other circumstances, are unable to attend Mass in person. Although they may be physically separated from our Sunday gatherings, they remain an important part of the St. Clement of Rome community.
Ministers to the Homebound help maintain this connection by bringing the Holy Eucharist to those who cannot come to church. Through this ministry, parishioners receive the gift of Holy Communion and are reminded that they remain remembered, loved, and supported by their parish family.
This ministry is a meaningful expression of Christ’s love through both the sacramental life of the Church and personal care for our brothers and sisters.
What Do Ministers to the Homebound Do?
Ministers to the Homebound bring Holy Communion to parishioners who are unable to attend Mass. Their service may include:
- Visiting parishioners in their homes, assisted living communities, or care facilities, as assigned.
- Bringing the Blessed Sacrament to those unable to participate in the celebration of Mass at church.
- Leading the appropriate prayers and rite for the distribution of Holy Communion outside Mass.
- Offering a friendly presence and a listening ear to those they visit.
- Keeping those they serve connected to the spiritual life and community of the parish.
- Communicating pastoral concerns or requests for additional assistance to the appropriate parish staff.
Above all, ministers approach each visit with reverence for the Eucharist, respect for the individual, and a sincere desire to serve Christ through their care for others.
A Ministry of Presence and Compassion
For someone who is homebound, a visit from a fellow parishioner can mean a great deal. The opportunity to receive Holy Communion, share a moment of prayer, or simply know that someone from the parish remembers them can bring comfort and encouragement.
Ministers serve not only as representatives of the parish, but as fellow members of the Body of Christ. Their visits are a reminder that our connection as a Catholic community does not end when someone can no longer attend Mass.
Through this ministry, we continue to share in the life of the Church and respond to Christ’s call to care for one another.
Who Can Serve?
Those interested in serving as Ministers to the Homebound should have a sincere devotion to the Holy Eucharist, a compassionate heart, and a willingness to serve those who may be elderly, ill, isolated, or otherwise unable to attend Mass.
Ministers must meet the applicable requirements of the Diocese of Phoenix and receive the necessary parish approval and preparation before bringing Holy Communion to others.
Depending on the nature of the visits, additional Safe Environment requirements and other parish procedures may apply.
Formation and Preparation
Those serving in this ministry receive appropriate instruction in the reverent handling of the Blessed Sacrament and the approved rite for distributing Holy Communion outside Mass.
Preparation also includes understanding the responsibilities of the minister, appropriate conduct during visits, and the importance of protecting the dignity, privacy, and well-being of those receiving Communion.
Ministers are expected to follow parish and diocesan procedures when receiving, transporting, and distributing the Blessed Sacrament.
Serving at St. Clement of Rome
At St. Clement of Rome, Ministers to the Homebound help extend our parish’s Eucharistic life to those who cannot regularly join us in church.
Whether visiting someone in a private residence or a care community, ministers offer a valuable connection to the parish through prayer, Holy Communion, and personal attention.
Our homebound brothers and sisters are never forgotten. Through this ministry, we continue to walk together as one parish family, sharing in the life of Christ and His Church.
Interested in Serving or Requesting a Visit?
If you feel called to serve those who are unable to attend Mass, we invite you to contact the parish office to learn more about this ministry and its formation requirements.
If you or someone you know is homebound and would like to receive Holy Communion, please contact the parish office as well. We would be glad to help arrange the appropriate pastoral care.
Every member of our parish family matters. We are here to help you remain connected to the life of the Church.
Contact Information
St. Clement of Rome Catholic Parish
15800 N. Del Webb Blvd.
Sun City, AZ 85351
Phone: (623) 974-5867
“For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me.”
Matthew 25:35