08/14/2026
PARISHIONERS PARTICIPATE IN AN EXTRAORDINARY MINISTER OF HOLY COMMUNION WORKSHOP at Most Blessed Sacrament
During the summer, Father John Job conducted a workshop for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMOHC). The two-hour presentation was open to those who expressed an interest in joining the ministry as well as to those who are already commissioned ministers.
In the Catholic Mass, the role of EMOHC is a vital ministry that ensures the reverent and orderly distribution of the Eucharist. This ministry is not merely a functional role but a profound act of service and devotion, reflecting the deep reverence for the Body and Blood of Christ.
The primary role of EMOHC is to assist in the distribution of Holy Communion when there are not enough ordained ministers (bishops, priests, and deacons) to serve the congregation. This need often arises in parishes with large congregations or during special liturgical celebrations where the number of communicants is particularly high. The term "extraordinary" highlights that this role is supplementary and not a replacement for the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion.
EMOHC have several key responsibilities that contribute to the liturgical celebration:
Assisting in the Distribution of Holy Communion: EMOHC help distribute the consecrated bread and w**e to the faithful during Mass. This ensures that the distribution is done in a timely and reverent manner, allowing the congregation to receive the Eucharist without undue delay.
Bringing Communion to the Sick and Homebound: EMOHC may also be tasked with bringing Holy Communion to those who are unable to attend Mass due to illness or infirmity. This ministry extends the reach of the Eucharist, ensuring that all members of the parish community can partake in the sacrament. For example, on the first Sunday of the month the EMOHC bring the Eucharist to the residents of the Oakland Care Center in Oakland.
Preparation and Reverence: EMOHC must prepare spiritually and practically for their role. This includes attending a formation session, understanding the theology of the Eucharist, and practicing the proper handling of the consecrated elements. They must also approach their ministry with deep reverence, recognizing the sacredness of the Eucharist.
Adhering to Liturgical Norms: EMOHC must follow the guidelines set forth by the Church and the Archbishop of Newark.
Serving as an EMOHC is a deeply spiritual and rewarding experience. It is a ministry that allows laypeople to participate in the liturgical life of the Church in a unique and meaningful way. By distributing the Body and Blood of Christ, EMOHC become instruments of God's grace, helping to nourish the spiritual lives of the faithful.
This ministry also fosters a deeper connection with the Eucharist. EMOHC are called to cultivate a profound devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, both in their public ministry and in their private lives. This devotion is reflected in their reverence and care for the Eucharist, as well as in their commitment to personal prayer and spiritual growth.
To serve as an EMOHC, individuals must meet certain qualifications and undergo proper formation. These qualifications typically include: Being a Practicing Catholic: The Archdiocese of Newark outlines the qualifications of an EMOHC. The EMOHC must be fully initiated into the Catholic Church, having received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. They should be practicing Catholics in good standing with the Catholic Church. They must be a minimum age of 18 who are registered parishioners of Most Blessed Sacrament.
Demonstrating Reverence and Devotion: EMOHC should exhibit a deep reverence for the Eucharist and a commitment to the Church's teachings. They should be exemplary in their conduct and dedicated to their spiritual growth.
Receiving Proper Training: EMOHC must undergo training that covers the theology of the Eucharist, the practical aspects of distributing Holy Communion, and the guidelines set forth by the Church. This training ensures that they are well-prepared to fulfill their role with knowledge and reverence.
After the candidate participates in a formation session, the Pastor writes to the Archbishop requesting that the candidate be mandated an EMOHC at his parish. After the candidate receives the mandate and is commissioned at a weekend Mass, the parishioner may begin to serve as an EMOHC. Please note that no mandates are required for any other liturgical ministry (e.g. lector and minister of hospitality).
We are blessed to have such dedicated Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Most Blessed Sacrament. Through their service, they help to nourish the spiritual lives of the faithful and to bring the presence of Christ to those in need. May their ministry be a source of blessing and grace, both for them and for the entire parish community.
Pictured here are parishioners of Most Blessed Sacrament who are new to the ministry. Once their mandates from the Archdiocese of Newark have arrived, we will offer them a special blessing at the Masses and offer our prayers as they begin their ministry as an Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.
