Those who serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are twice blessed. First, they have the sacred honor of bringing the Eucharist to the faithful. Second, as they do so, they strengthen their own relationships with Christ.
Such an important responsibility requires both initial preparation and ongoing formation. That is what the online workshop provided to Boston Area members and friends in late July. Preparing to Serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion was presented by Jessica DePrizio Cole, Ph.D., with Liturgy Training Publications in Chicago, IL. The workshop offered an overview on this important ministry as well as practical and spiritual guidance for those who may consider becoming Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Participants had the opportunity to:
- Learn best practices and techniques for serving in this ministry;
- Reflect upon the task and joy of distributing Holy Communion to others;
- Explore prayer and reconciliation for proper spiritual preparation for ministry duties.
Speaking of the session, participant Ginny Meskell, DM, who has been a Eucharistic Minister at Mass General Hospital for many years, said: “It would be very helpful to anyone considering becoming a Eucharist Minister as it covered every aspect involved in the ministry.”
Deacon Dan Romanello, KM, who also participated, commented: “The content of the program presented by Jessica forms an essential baseline to build upon in developing a profound appreciation for the Eucharist—the central mystery and the very source and summit of our Roman Catholic faith.”
The July workshop was part of an ongoing series hosted by the Boston Area in celebration of The Year of the Eucharist in the Archdiocese of Boston. The workshop was presented in partnership with Liturgy Training Publications, a leading provider of Catholic liturgical and pastoral programs based in Chicago, Illinois.
