At each celebration of the Eucharist there must be a sufficient number of ministers of Holy Communion so that it can be distributed in an orderly and reverent manner. Bishops, priests and deacons distribute Holy Communion by virtue of their office as ordinary ministers of the Body and Blood of the Lord.
However, when the attendance of the assembly gathered to celebrate the Holy Mass is large, the Priest who presides over the Eucharistic celebration may be assisted by other “extraordinary” ministers. Suitable faithful who have been legitimately designated to exercise this ministry in case of need, in accordance with the Liturgical Norms of the Church.
All extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion must show the greatest reverence for the Most Holy Eucharist, both in their behavior, their attire, and the respectful manner of treating the consecrated species of Bread and Wine. Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion must receive sufficient spiritual, theological and practical training to perform their role with knowledge and reverence. In all matters such extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion must follow the commands of the Ordinary Bishop. (General Instruction of the Roman Missal).
Fr. Claudio
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