Canon 900 §1 of the 1983 Code of Canon Law provides:
The only minister who, in the person of Christ, can bring into being the sacrament of the Eucharist, is a validly ordained priest.

The Eucharistic Minister program involves lay ministers who assist in the distribution of Communion at all of our Sunday liturgies, holy days and special Masses. In the Mass, they are referred to more accurately as "Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion" (the "ordinary" minister being the priest celebrant).

A Eucharistic Minister is a registered parishioner and is mandated by the Bishop. A Eucharistic Minister serves, distributes, and administers the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ during the Holy Communion or Eucharist.

Qualifications:
A suitable candidate should have a devotion to the Eucharist and possess the time, health and willingness to serve in this capacity.

• The individual must be a registered member of the parish
• Fully initiated in the faith, that is, be baptized, received First Eucharist, confirmed, and if married, marriage must be recognized by Catholic Church
• Have an on going relationship with the parish
• All candidates are required to attend training sessions
• Completed and adhere to the Safe Environment Program of the parish and the Diocese of Dallas

Because the Eucharistic Minister is a minister of service, it is important that the candidate possess a serious and mature faith commitment. The person knows what it means to say, “the Body of Christ, the Blood of Christ”.

EM’S to the Sick: Must have completed and must adhere to the Safe Environment Program of the parish and the Diocese of Dallas. We must show reverence for the Holy Eucharist, Eucharistic Ministers taking the Holy Eucharist to the homebound or hospital are to use a PYX in which to carry the Sacred Host. This container, the PYX, can be obtained in the Working Sacristy and should be returned the PYX at your earliest convenience.

Participation in this ministry offers the individual ministers a very special means of participating in the Mass. We are always very eager to welcome new ministers to our ranks.

For further information, please contact Bob Hille, 972-771-8474.