Guidelines for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Saint Martin of Tours Church
A Sacred Ministry Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) are called to serve with humility, reverence, and joy. While priests and deacons are the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion, EMHCs assist in distributing the Body and Blood of Christ when necessary. This ministry is both a privilege and a responsibility.
We offer these guidelines to support and welcome those who are beginning—or renewing—their service.
Preparation and Dress
Arrive early: Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before Mass and check in with the Mass Coordinator.
Dress with reverence: Attire should reflect the dignity of the ministry. Avoid jeans, shorts, flip-flops, t-shirts, and revealing clothing. Men should tuck in their shirts and avoid rolled-up sleeves. Choose modest, respectful, and liturgically appropriate clothing.
During the Liturgy
Approaching the Altar: After the Sign of Peace, approach with reverence. Bow slightly toward the altar before ascending and sanitize your hands at the designated station.
Receiving Communion: Stand just below the altar platform to receive Communion from the priest. Respond clearly, "Amen," when the Body of Christ is presented.
Distribution of Communion
Proclaim clearly: Say only, “The Body of Christ” as you present the Host, making brief eye contact with the communicant. Do not add or change the wording.
Honor the communicant's choice: Communicants may receive the Host either on the tongue or in the hand.
Distribute with reverence: Place the Host slowly and carefully into the communicant’s hand or on the tongue. A calm, prayerful pace helps prevent drops and fosters a spirit of devotion.
For those not receiving: If someone approaches with arms crossed—or appears unsure of how to receive—offer a simple blessing such as, “May the Lord bless you.” Do not make the Sign of the Cross; that gesture belongs to the priest.
For the disabled or immobile: After the main procession, the priest or ministers will be directed to those unable to come forward.
If the Host Falls or Is Damaged
If a Host is dropped:
Please pick it up immediately and with reverence.
If the Host is intact and clean, reverently consume it yourself. This is the preferred and most fitting response.
If a Host is wet or otherwise damaged:
If this occurs during the Communion procession, place the Host on the purificator on the altar next to the chalice and continue serving. After Communion has concluded, bring the damaged Host to the sacristy and follow the guidelines below.
Using one of the drinking cups, dissolve the Host in water, then pour the water into the sacrarium. The sacrarium has a covered basin and a dedicated pipe that drains directly into the earth, not into the sewer system. It is located next to the regular sink in the sacristy. Never use the regular sink to dispose of a host.
After Communion
Any remaining consecrated Hosts are placed in the tabernacle by the priest or EMHC.
Final Notes
Always move with calm and reverence; this ministry is never rushed.
Your presence and demeanor are part of the sacred witness you offer to the assembly.
Thank you for your faithful service in this beautiful and essential ministry.
“For we, though many, are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.” — 1 Corinthians 10:17