What is an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion?

An extraordinary minister of Holy Communion is a layperson or instituted acolyte authorized to distribute the Eucharist when the ordinary ministers cannot do so adequately. This is a service of necessity, not ordination or a permanent right to minister.

Who the ordinary ministers are. Bishops, priests, and deacons are the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion (Canon 910). A bishop or priest consecrates the Eucharist during Mass. A deacon may distribute Communion but cannot consecrate it. An extraordinary minister does not change bread and wine into Christ's Body and Blood and does not receive sacramental powers through this appointment.

Why extraordinary ministers are used. The Church permits them when there are not enough ordinary ministers, when ordinary ministers are absent or impeded, or when the number of communicants is so large that Mass would be unduly prolonged. Canon law identifies an instituted acolyte or another properly designated member of the faithful as an extraordinary minister (Canon 910). Laypeople may fulfill certain liturgical functions according to the law of the Church (CCC 903).

How someone is authorized. A diocesan bishop sets norms for the diocese, and the pastor ordinarily selects and trains suitable parishioners under those norms. Authorization may be for a defined period or, in an unforeseen case, for a particular occasion. A person may not simply enter the sanctuary and begin distributing Communion. The Church expects extraordinary ministers to be Catholics in good standing whose faith, conduct, and reverence are consistent with the sacred duty entrusted to them.

What they may do. During Mass, they may assist in distributing the consecrated host and, where offered, the Precious Blood. Some are also commissioned to bring Holy Communion to parishioners who are sick, homebound, hospitalized, or in nursing facilities. This ministry should include prayerful care for the person, while respecting the parish's procedures for transporting and consuming the Eucharist. The Blessed Sacrament must never be treated as ordinary food or kept at home for later use.

Why the word “extraordinary” matters. It means outside the ordinary class of ministers, not unusually impressive. Extraordinary ministers should be used according to genuine pastoral need. They do not replace priests or deacons merely as a matter of convenience. Their service should direct attention toward Christ, whose true Body and Blood are being received (CCC 1374). St. Paul warns Christians to receive the Eucharist with discernment and reverence (1 Cor 11:27-29).

If you are asked to serve, receive proper parish training, remain faithful to Sunday Mass and regular confession, and handle the Eucharist with careful devotion. Quiet, accurate, and reverent service keeps the focus where it belongs: on Jesus Christ.