Prayer of Eucharistic Ministers

A common prayer for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) reflects on the sacredness of their role in distributing the Body and Blood of Christ. These prayers often emphasize humility, reverence, and a desire to serve God and His people worthily.

One such prayer, often recited by EMHCs, is: "May my behavior and the attitude of my heart reflect that holy honor as I strive to serve in a sacred way. With awe and wonder, I will hold in my hands the Body of Christ and His Sacred Blood, so that my sisters and brothers may be fed with the Food of Life. Make my heart and hands clean. Free me from anything of vanity and pride that might divorce me and the service that is mine from the heart of the Divine Mystery residing in this Holy Meal. May I, with your constant assistance, truly wait upon You and Your people in this Holy Liturgy of Praise and Adoration. AMEN."

Another prayer frequently used by EMHCs is: "Jesus, bless these hands you have chosen as your tools. Jesus, always keep us aware and in awe of our sacred mission. Jesus, make us worthy of this great ministry we have humbly accepted. Jesus, send us out into the world to distribute your love."

These prayers highlight the profound responsibility and privilege associated with being an EMHC, acknowledging that they are instruments in God's service. The role involves distributing Holy Communion, particularly when there is a large number of communicants, and often extends to bringing communion to the homebound, those in hospitals, and nursing homes. Individuals interested in serving as an EMHC typically need to contact their pastor, express their interest, and undergo training provided by the Office of Worship of their respective Archdiocese or Diocese. Prerequisites for this ministry include being in a state of grace, being fully initiated into the sacramental life of the Church (having received Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist), and not being prevented by Church law.

PRAYER :" Lord God, I thank you for calling me to serve you and your people in this community as an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist. You know that I could never be worthy of such an exalted honor. Help me to be less unworthy by remaining free from sin. Let me nourish your people with the witness of my life as I feed them with the Body of Christ. Grant your strength and holiness to all your extraordinary ministers and make them worthy bringing Christ to others. Amen. "