Eucharistic Ministers
Eucharistic ministers are lay people (non-clergy) who assist the priest, being called upon to perform an extraordinary service: to minister the Body and Blood of Christ to the faithful. We gather on the day of the Resurrection to express our belief in eternal life--we listen to the Word of God--we give thanks and praise.
This celebration of the Eucharist is our most important activity. And this ministry allows you to be at the center of the life of the Church.
Who may become a Eucharistic minister?
Anyone who is fully initiated as a member of the Church can serve as a Eucharistic Minister. This means they must have received the Sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and holy communion. A short training program is offered for newcomers to altar serving.
Those who serve as eucharistic ministers should bring strong faith, a sense of awe, and an inclusiveness of others as the foundation for their ministry. Eucharistic ministers must be comfortable in sharing the body and blood of Christ with each communicant in what is most likely the most intimate moment of the liturgy.
We request that all ministers of Holy Communion show the greatest reverence for the Most Holy Eucharist by their demeanor, their attire, and the manner in which they handle the consecrated bread and wine. Preference forms are sent out quarterly to let you plan your dates of service.
For more information, contact Bethanne Mazurczak at (414) 453-2919 - Email
Prayer for Ministers of Holy Communion
Lord,
As the apostle John stood next to your Son’s Cross, so I am privileged to stand next to your altar table and serve in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. In a long tradition of priestly people, I am grateful for the honor that is mine. 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.
--from Prayers for the Servants of God by Edward M. Hays