Eucharistic Ministers

Though it is believed that lay people had some role in “communion” in the early Church, by the seventh century, that role was specifically prohibited. The role of Eucharistic Minister in the Church emerged just after, and as a result of, the Second Vatican Council in the 1960's. It is a mission, a calling, that has evolved over the last half century into one of the most meaningful of the ministries. What greater calling than to participate with the Priest in the sharing of the Body and Blood of Christ with the congregation - the family - of our Parish.
 
More than 100 parishioners presently offer their time, talent, and service as Eucharistic Ministers.  These individuals are prompted by the Holy Spirit to carry out their baptismal call to service in a special way. An evening of spiritual and practical training is followed by a ceremony of commissioning.

At Mass: During the Liturgy of the Eucharist, the second part of the Mass, the Eucharistic Ministers assist the priests and deacons with the distribution of Holy Communion under both species.  Schedules of service are provided that are sensitive to the needs of all participants.

To the Sick: These Ministers serve the needs of those who are prevented by some medical condition from attending Mass and receiving Communion.  Ministers are trained and provided material appropriate to the needs of the communicant, and bring the host and the prayers of the Parish family on each visit.  In addition, several of our ministers routinely visit nursing homes or extended care facilities in the area, where they bring Communion and offer prayer services.

Please call the Parish Office at (508) 775-5744 if you are interested in serving in this ministry, or send an email to ministries@olvparish.org.