Let us be filled.

"Yours is a share in the work of the Lord's Spirit who makes of us one bread, one body, the cup of blessing. Yours is a work of ministering Christ's body and blood to the body of Christ, the Church. Yours is service at the Lord's reconciling table. You minister holy food to holy people in the holiest of all communions.

The Eucharistc Mininsters Handbook

Whilst Bishops, priests and deacons are the ordinary ministers of Communion, there are many occasions when they will frequently need help to distribute Communion so that the rite is not unduly long. This is especially the case when Communion is given under both kinds as the Eucharistic banquet is more clearly signified.

Extra-ordinary ministers are commissioned from within the worshiping community and entrusted with administering Holy Communion under both kinds with care and reverence at all our parish Masses. They also assist the ordained ministers by distributing Holy Communion to the Sick and housebound in private homes and care facilities, including hospital. This profound ministry is integral to the faith, joy and life of our parishes and Catholic tradition.

Being an Extra-ordinary Minister of Communion is a great privilege and a form of humble service to the faith community.  It is truly awesome.

When approached, many of us can feel unworthy of this ministry. Yet if someone has suggested you consider it, they will have seen something extraordinary and remarkable in you and that you are a wonderful example to them and others of Christian living through your faith and conduct.

If you are interested or want to recommend someone speak to Fr Michael or

Contact Deacon Mark at Sacred Heart     mark.forge@deacon.cliftondiocese.com   

           or Sue Downer  at St Pius Xth          susan.downer.70@hotmail.com

• Know deeply that we are the Body and Blood of Christ.
• Look at the readings and prayer of the Mass and use them for your own prayer.
• Reflect on how they speak of the love of God for all, and the quality of life that they call us to make our own.
• Reflect on the people you will be ministering to, those at church and the sick and housebound. Recall how, with you, they are members of the Body of Christ.
• Pray for them, for yourself and the other ministers - that together you will find deeper communion with Christ and with each other through the celebration of Mass.
• Ensure that you are at church in good time to join the other ministers in the sacristy before the liturgy begins for a short prayer.
• There will be parish and Diocesan formation days to attend.
• This role does require DBS clearance in line with the Diocesan Safeguarding Policy.