EMHC Question

[sacristan1]

I am having second thoughts on an action of yesterday and hope someone can shed some light on this matter for me. Yesterday it seemed okay but after giving it some thought I am not sure I did the right thing. Please help.

I have been taking Communion to a sick parishioner for a few months, he is now beginning to show some progress and is able to get out on occasions, yesterday being one of them. He could not attend Mass yesterday because of a Doctor’s appointment but came to Church following his appointment and asked me to give him Communion at the Church. I said I would be most pleased to accommodate his wish and proceeded with the usual protocol as though I were giving him Communion at home except we were in the Church and I very reverently gave Communion directly from the Ciborium in the Tabernacle rather than using a Pyx. I washed and dried my fingers as usual, bowed and left the Altar and went back to his pew and said the closing prayer. I did everything the same as if it were a home sick call except for not using the Pyx.

Is this the proper thing to do? It seems each day something new arises which makes me second guess myself as to whether or not I am doing things right and with all the things being said about EMHCs, I certainly don’t want to take a chance of adding any fuel to the fire.

I would appreciate any information you can offer on this subject.

Thanks,

 

[Marauder]

What you did is fine as long as it is permitted by your pastor. Some pastors do not permit anyone that isn’t a priest or deacon from going into the Tabernacle whether it is during Mass or not. Other pastors permit it. EMHCs should not be going into the Tabernacle during Mass but outside of Mass it is up to the local customs. No matter what you should be trained in the proper procedures.

If you are unsure of something, verify it with your pastor. In the course of taking the Eucharist to the hospital I have had several unusual things happen and I have always asked a priest afterwards and they always say I did the right thing. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

P.S. All the rules that apply to someone receiving communion outside of Mass would apply to the person receiving (i.e. can only receive once per day unless the second time is at Mass that they participate in.)

 

[sacristan1]

Thank you for your prompt response. We NEVER go into the Tabernacle DURING Mass, and this is the first time I have ever given Communion in the Church outside of Mass, I have always taken Communion to the sick to their home or hospital, so I guess that’s why it seemed a little awkward. My Priest is okay with it and I just wanted to be sure in the event it ever happened again.