Extraordingary Eucharistic Ministers QUESTION from Mike Mallinger on December 26, 2002 Given your previous answer that Their duty is simply to distribute Holy Communion when there is an insufficient supply of ordinary ministers. This is ALL that they should do. Is it appropriate for an Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister to place the Monstrance on the altar, lead Adoration prayers, and replace in the sacristy?
ANSWER by Mr. Jacob Slavek on December 28, 2002 Dear Mr. Mallinger,
What I meant when I said, This is ALL that they should do, is that they are not to perform another ministry during the same celebration of the Mass. That is, they must not also be a lector, or server, or whatever.
Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister may place the monstrance on the altar for adoration, but only with specific authorization from the bishop. There must not be an available priest, deacon or instituted acolyte. They may not bless the people with the Host. (from the Rite of Eucharistic Exposition and Benediction)
Mr. Slavek
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