“Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion should distinguish themselves by their Christian lives, faith and morals. Let them strive to be worthy of this great office; let them cultivate devotion to the Holy Eucharist and show themselves as examples to other faithful by their piety and reverence for the most Holy Sacrament of the Altar. Let no one be chosen whose selection may cause scandal among the faithful.” - Immensae Caritatis (Vatican II Document)

(EMHC) Mission To distribute Communion at Mass when there is no sufficient number of Ministers of Holy Communion (bishops, priests, and deacons) To bring Communion to the sick or the homebound of the parish Training Sessions Session 1 - new EMHCs are to attend an informational training or discernment session. In this session, presentors and participants will get to know each other to form a community. The trainers will present the historical background of the eucharistic ministry, requirements, theological aspect of the ministry, and the spirituality of the ministry. Session 2 - In this session, the trainer will present the theological aspect of the eucharist, the Diocesan Guideline, and the demonstration and procedures in giving out Communion using the Norms for the Distribution and Reception of Holy Communion Under Both Kinds in the Dioceses of the United States of America (NDRHC) and the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM - Revised Edition 2003). Requirements Must be mature in faith and in full communion with the Church. (Baptized; Confirmed; and if married, must be in conformity of the Catholic Church; for second marriages, whose prior spouse is still living, prior marriage should be annulled by the Church.) In this case, the person who desires to be an EMHC may wish to make an appointment with the priest or the deacon for their annulment process. Registered parishioner. The candidate must be a registered member of Saint Anne. Prayer and Spirituality is a vital part of our ministry. Without these, our ministry means nothing and that we are just warm bodies trying to fill-in a spot. Participation in other Liturgical and Sacramental life of the Church is essential to this ministry. Continuing Formation of the EMHC: Attend yearly workshops/retreats! All EMHCs gather together twice a year in community with all liturgical ministers for prayers and fellowship (at least once a year around the Advent season and/or during the Lenten season). The Diocese also recommends all new EMHC’s in the Parish to attend the Diocesan training held annually in the Fall. Further information will be announced via e-mail or through the church bulletins.