What is the Role of a Minister of the Eucharist?

The communion rite is the heart and centre of the Eucharistic Liturgy. As we gather around the Lord's Table to receive the one bread and drink from a shared cup, we recognize each other as sisters and brothers bound together by the love of Jesus Christ.

The role of a Minister of Communion is to serve the people of God by assisting in the distribution of the Body and Blood of our Lord at the Eucharistic liturgy. You are encouraged to extend your ministry to those confined in their homes, in the hospital and/or our parish nursing homes.

The Ministers of Communion are responsible for assisting in the distribution of Holy Communion at all masses at St. Gerard's. Our Ministry extends also to serving Communion at the F.J Davey Home, Tendercare Nursing Home and the Great Northern Retirement Home.

This Ministry also brings Holy Communion to those who cannot attend mass due to illness either at home or in the hospital. This service is performed on the request through the Parish Office.

We always welcome any who would be interested in serving in this Ministry, especially the youth of our Parish. Just contact either Josephine or Eileen through the email addresses shown or through the Parish Office.

Responsibilities

• Serve Holy Communion at the scheduled mass times.
• Arrive in the Sacristy 10 minutes before mass to gather for prayer.
• Ensure that there are sufficient ministers for the mass. The lead person of the Eucharist for each mass assumes this responsibility.
• If you are lead persons of the Eucharist and Cup it is your additional responsibility to remain after mass to assist with clean up.

• Note: A single session training program is offered to potential Ministers of Communion. Further detail regarding procedures will be provided at that time.