Compassionate Ministry for the Sick and Homebound
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
Anyone who is interested in bringing Holy Communion to the sick or homebound must have already been installed EMHC. Please see the EMHC page for more information.
EMHCs that Bring Holy Communion to the Sick
All EMHCs to the sick and homebound must undergo background screening, which includes fingerprinting, and they must complete the Safe Environment Program that is provided by the Diocese before they will be allowed to function in this ministry. A separate training session will be held for those who will be bringing communion to the homebound with individuals who have already completed the regular training session, so that the specific issues involved in this service may be presented with greater depth. It is important that EMHCs to the homebound become acquainted with the approved rites for communion in such circumstances, and that they have a copy of that ritual that they may use when distributing Holy Communion.
Prior to Mass the EMHC will collect cards from the sacristy. The cards have the names/addresses of those who cannot join us at Mass.
Before arriving at each home, the EMHC will call the number provided to make certain the visit is anticipated. The EMHC will receive the Blessed Sacrament from the Priest or Deacon, at the end of the distribution of Holy Communion during Mass. A metal Pyx will be given to each EMHC in which the host(s) have been placed, and a burse (a small pouch) in which to place the Pyx. The cord may be placed around the neck and then the burse (with the Pyx inside) may be placed in a shirt pocket, or left hanging around the neck, or otherwise carried on the minister’s person with the utmost reverence.
Once the EMHC has received the Blessed Sacrament, it is important to go directly to the place where he or she is to distribute Holy Communion. They are not to make unrelated stops or engage in social conversations while in possession of the Blessed Sacrament. It is never allowed to take the Blessed Sacrament home for later distribution. These are considered grave matters by the Church. Some things to remember when bringing Holy Communion to the Sick and the Homebound:
If you feel you are called to this ministry, or have any questions, please use the CONTACT menu option above to contact the Ministry of the Sick and Homebound coordinator.
Prior to Mass the EMHC will collect cards from the sacristy. The cards have the names/addresses of those who cannot join us at Mass.
Before arriving at each home, the EMHC will call the number provided to make certain the visit is anticipated. The EMHC will receive the Blessed Sacrament from the Priest or Deacon, at the end of the distribution of Holy Communion during Mass. A metal Pyx will be given to each EMHC in which the host(s) have been placed, and a burse (a small pouch) in which to place the Pyx. The cord may be placed around the neck and then the burse (with the Pyx inside) may be placed in a shirt pocket, or left hanging around the neck, or otherwise carried on the minister’s person with the utmost reverence.
Once the EMHC has received the Blessed Sacrament, it is important to go directly to the place where he or she is to distribute Holy Communion. They are not to make unrelated stops or engage in social conversations while in possession of the Blessed Sacrament. It is never allowed to take the Blessed Sacrament home for later distribution. These are considered grave matters by the Church. Some things to remember when bringing Holy Communion to the Sick and the Homebound:
- Use the ritual “Communion of the Sick” and bring a missalette or Bible to read the scripture readings.
- Introduce yourself to those who are present and briefly explain what you have come to do. Pay attention to how the sick/homebound person is feeling.
- Invite those who are present to participate in the prayers.
- Based on the person’s strength/attentiveness, share with them the day’s homily.
- Create links to the parish, e.g., bring a parish bulletin, or share news from the parish.
- Thank the person for the opportunity to pray with them and for their hospitality.
- Immediately after your visits are complete, you should consume any remaining hosts.
- Return to the sacristy and purify the Pyx. Note on the index cards if the host was received and return the card to the drawer in the sacristy, along with the Pyx and burse.
If you feel you are called to this ministry, or have any questions, please use the CONTACT menu option above to contact the Ministry of the Sick and Homebound coordinator.