The ministry of extra-ordinary or special ministers of Holy Communion was first established by Pope Paul VI in 1973. The special ministers of communion are carefully selected by the parish priest. Communion ministers need to be those who respect all people and a display a caring approach inside and outside the liturgy. Communion ministers need to develop the art of dignified movement and be able to hold the plate and share the bread with reverence. Above all they need the capacity to be truly present to the other in that special moment of communion together as members of “The Body of Christ”. This is a very special ministry. Always be mindful of that. Be neither stern nor jolly but display a tactful mixture of being friendly, inviting and accommodating yet go about this with a sincere reverence that makes it obvious that you yourself believe in this very special ministry of sharing the Body and Blood of Christ with others.
