How can I be appointed as an extraordinary minister to distribute Holy Communion?

[migencluz]

I always wanted to be an extraordinary minister, but I don’t know the process of becoming one.

 

[coachdennis]

In most circumstances your pastor selects YOU, not the other way around.

If you feel the call, set up a meeting with your pastor to discuss your suitability and responsibilities. Many EMHC volunteer in home visits and hospitals as well as at Mass

 

[CalCatholic]

I always wanted to be an extraordinary minister, but I don’t know the process of becoming one.

Check your parish bulletin (or call the rectory office), they may have a person listed to contact regarding this ministry.

 

[marbleartist]

In every parish I’ve been in, and there have been quite a few all over the country, you volunteer to serve. Usually, there is an opportunity on Stewardship Sunday or Ministry Fair or whatever the event is called in your parish. It is a time when parishioners are made more aware of the opportunities to serve and volunteer. In my current parish, notices are also placed in the bulletin pretty much every week looking for people to serve as EMHC and announcing the dates of the next formation classes. I’ve served for many years as an EMHC, both in Mass and to the homebound and hospitalized, and it is a wonderful opportunity to bring Christ to others. I will pray that you get this opportunity!

 

[powerofk]

Really, the process depends on the diocese and/or parish. If I were you, I’d ask your pastor what the process is at your parish. Usually, there’s some type of training involved, and the need to make sure that you are living in accordance to Church teachings (as to not commit the sin of scandal and/or sacrilege). If your pastor isn’t in charge of trainings, he knows who is, and will give you that person’s contact information. And - to note - there is no requirement that parishes even have EMHCs. EMHCs are for convenience matters only (to speed up the communion procession), but, remember, the Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are ordained clergy, and the pastor can make the decision not to use EMHCs.