St. Joseph's Basilica

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Eucharistic Ministers

 

EUCHARISTIC MINISTRY

Who are Eucharistic Ministers?

The ordinary Eucharistic Ministers are the priests and deacons who have received their sacramental ordination. The church has also established Extraordinary (Auxiliary) Eucharistic Ministers. They are members of the laity, sisters, or brothers who have been chosen to assist the bishop, priests, or deacons in distributing Holy Communion. At St Joseph’s Basilica, Eucharistic Ministers provide Christ’s Body and Blood to the faithful.

Eucharistic Ministry Requirements

The Holy Communion rite is the raison d’etre (the essence) of the Eucharistic liturgy. As we gather around the Lord’s Table to receive His Body and Blood, we recognize each other as sisters and brothers bound together by the love of Jesus Christ.

All interested candidates for this important ministry are screened by the Rector or members of the Parish Team.

Training

Training is required to become a Eucharistic Minister. The theological foundation and the "how-to’s" are explained. The volunteer candidates attend an initial training session; refresher courses are usually held once a year. There are also refresher courses that are held in conjunction with other ministries and usually consist of a general session, individual ministry sessions, and a Mass with a Commissioning Ceremony.

Time Commitment

Auxiliary Eucharistic Ministers are given the opportunity to provide input into their individual schedules. St. Joseph’s Basilica requires 55 – 58 people per weekend at 5 different Masses. The schedule is assembled every three months and the volunteers can choose the Masses and Sundays they are available to serve. The lay minister will be scheduled one to three times per month.

People who cannot commit their time on a regular basis may also assist by putting their names on a substitute list to fill in at their convenience when others are sick or not available for their scheduled time.

Help is always needed for this special and rewarding ministry.

"There is no celebration more significant to the life of the church that the Celebration of the Eucharist".

To register as a volunteer for this ministry please contact Melanie Mitchell.

Phone: 780 -488 – 7295