Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) assist the priest by distributing Communion during Mass. EMHC show reverence for the Holy Eucharist by their demeanor, attire, and the manner in which they handle the Body and Blood of Christ.

The pastor appoints parishioners as EMHC who meet the following criteria:

• Adults or teenagers (over the age of 18) that are baptized and confirmed;
• Faithful participants in the sacramental life of the Church;
• Registered parishioners of Saint Paul the Apostle Parish;
• Approved by the Bishop of Portland.

EMHC are trained by the priests and other EMHC to fulfill their role. With permission of the pastor, an EMHC may elect to distribute Holy Communion to the sick or those unable to attend Mass. All EMHC attend a Protecting God's Children Class and maintain on-going compliance with the monthly online Virtus Training Bulletins. EMHC are assigned to a Mass at a church of their choosing and serve at one to two Masses per month. Parishioners should contact the Parish Office for consideration as an EMHC.