Can laypersons preside at a Communion service?

[flyfishin]

Can laypeople officiate at a Communion service? I always thought it had to be a deacon, but have seen women lead Communion services at our parish.

 

[Michelle_Arnold]

A Communion service is less preferable than a Mass, so if a priest is available then a Mass should be said. If a priest is not available, but a deacon is available for a Communion service, it is preferable that he preside because he is also ordained (although to a lesser degree than a priest). However, laypeople may preside at a Communion service if necessary.