Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

What is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion?
An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) is a lay person who has been appointed to assist the priest/s or deacon in distributing Holy Communion to God’s people when there is a shortage of ordained clergy. Extraordinary ministers provide a precious service to the Church in serving during times of need upon request from an ordained minister.
 
Becoming an EMHC requires careful preparation on the part of the extraordinary minister. The training and preparation is carefully provided by our Church. Training sessions are offered each quarter for current EMHC, and as needed for new EMHC. Trainings must be attended by all ministers when scheduled. Please, check our weekly bulletin for upcoming updates.
 
If you feel called to this ministry, or have any questions, please contact Deacon Steve for more information. 
 
Requirements to become an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
EMHCs are faithful parishioners selected carefully by the priest/s. They must embody values consistent with Christian life, faith, and morals and have a great devotion to the Eucharist and must seek to cultivate holiness through confession, personal prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, and regular Sunday Mass attendance and daily Mass if possible.
The following is a list of requirements to be eligible to be an EMHC:
 
-          Be a registered member of St. Lawrence Martyr Catholic Church in good standing
-          Must have received the Holy Sacrament of Confirmation
-          Must be at least 16 years old with sufficient Christian maturity.
                               a) 16 years old candidates may serve for renewable one- year terms until they reach                                     their 18^th birthday. Young candidates will be considered on a one-by-one case at                                       the solely discretion of the pastor.
                               b) 18 years old candidates may serve for renewable three-year terms at pastor’s                                           discretion.
 -          If married, must be in a valid marriage according to the Catholic Church
-          Must fulfill an initial interview with the priest and receive his blessing
-          Must attend two training sessions (or more if needed)
-          Must be in compliance with the Archdiocese of Baltimore to be a volunteer
 
Protecting Children and Adults Requirements
St. Lawrence is committed to protecting the safety of all children and vulnerable adults. As such, all of our volunteers are required to complete a free application for Ministry and Background check to be in compliance with the Archdiocese of Baltimore’s policy. Volunteers are also required to complete the VIRTUS online training before they are scheduled to serve. In order to begin the background check and online training, you may contact the  Screening Coordinator, Ms. Teresa Ogden for details at 410 -799-1970 or email StandCoordinator@SaintLawrenceMartyr.org .

If you are considering becoming an EMHC, please contact us at your convenience to sign up for our next training session.