Eucharistic Ministry

Fr. Josh explains what an Ordinary Eucharistic Minister and Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister is, and when it's appropriate to use Extraordinary Ministers. He also shares the proper way to receive Jesus in the Eucharist and young St. Tarcisius' story.

When we are invited to bring Jesus in Holy Communion to those who are not able to come to Mass, it is a time of profound seriousness because who we are bringing.

Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministry

I came back to Catholic church because of the Eucharist. I didn’t truly know or embrace the reality of the true Body of Christ until recently. I feel called to become Eucharistic Minister at my parish and have volunteered couple of times. I have always felt I am not worthy, and now I feel it deeper. I came across people who are against receiving the Eucharist on their hands. And, some are against lay people or even lay women to be Eucharistic ministers because it is only for the Priests. This has confused me and weighing me down. Could you please share your thoughts and Church teachings about Eucharistic minister and how to properly receive it? Thank you!!!
-Anonymous

St. Tarcisius

St. Tarcisius was a young saint and acolyte who lived in 3rd century Rome. Durning this time, Christians were persecuted and often died for their faith. Mass was celebrated daily in secret in the Catacombs and each day an Ordinary Minister would be sent to the prisons to distribute Holy Communion. Because so many priests and bishops were in prison, they needed help and chose young Tarcisius to take Communion to the prisoners. On his way to the prison, non Christian playmates wanted him to join them in their games, but he refused because he had Jesus in the Eucharist. This prompted them to question Tarcisius and notice he was carrying something that may have symbolized his Christian faith. They then beat him up and kill him. He is buried in the Catacombs in Rome.