What is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion?

In short, an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion a lay person or religious who has been deputed by the bishop for a period of time, or by a priest for a single occasion, to assist the priest and deacon in distributing Holy Communion to the faithful on those occasions where a shortage of ordained clergy makes it impossible for them to distribute Holy Communion to all the faithful in a reasonable way. It is thus a privilege to which the Church invites certain individuals under given circumstances.

Qualifications to Serve as an Extraordinary Minister

If married, be married within the Church.

Have received the sacrament of Confirmation.

Be at least 16 years of age.

Attend a two hour training session and be certified by their pastor that they are properly qualified and trained.

Training - When, Where & How Long?

If you attend a specific Mass every Sunday you can choose to be on the schedule for that Mass. The frequency you serve will depend on the number of Extraordinary Ministers we have signed up for that Mass.

You can choose not to be assigned to a specific Mass and be listed as a "Sub", in this category you would check with the Liturgy Coordinator in the Commons area at the Mass you are attending. If you choose this category you must serve a minimum four times per year to keep your certification active.

You may choose to be listed as a "Sub" and serve as an Extraordinary Minister at weekday Masses and holy days.

As a certified extraordinary minister you may also choose to take Holy Communion to the sick and home bound. There is some additional training for this ministry.

Once you have been trained and certified you can serve at any Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle you attend and they need extraordinary ministers to assist the priest and deacon.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

If you are interested in being a part of this ministry or would like to know more about it, attend the next training session. Pulpit announcements will be made as soon as we can confirm the date and time. If you have questions call or e-mail Bill or Jeanne Simmons at; 770-975-8283 or wjsimm@mindspring.com.  

Download the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion's 3rd Quarter Schedule (MS Excel format)