Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist began with the Commissioning by Archbishop Hannan on March 28, 1972.  Their purpose is to assist the priest in administering the Holy Eucharist at masses on weekends or other services when available, and to bring communion to the sick at the hospital, nursing homes and to shut-ins. This ministry is open to fully participating Catholics who have a deep love for the Eucharist and who realize each memeber of the worshipping community is to be Eucharist to each other and to the world.  The Pastor request  permission from Bishop and once approved a training is given for this ministry.