Women Extra-Ordinary Ministers of the Eucharist

Some time back in 2006, news went around that the Archbishop had decided to allow parishes to commission women as Extra-ordinary Ministers of the Eucharist.

When I first heard about this, I felt that it did not concern me because I could not imagine myself as a possible candidate for this ministry. I was really surprised when Fr Andrew asked me on one occasion whether I could commit an hour or so on weekends. He didn’t tell me why though. Then on another occasion he approached and asked me to fill up my particulars. I did so obediently and only when I looked at the list, did I realise that it was for this ministry.

About 10 of us then underwent three sessions on the Eucharist with Fr Michael Arro, MEP. In our parish we were told that we would start our ministry on the first Sunday of Advent. As the day approached I was anxious and one day after Mass I asked Jesus earnestly whether he really wanted me to be His Extra-ordinary Minister of the Eucharist. The confirmation came when within the hour, another priest from the chapel where I occasionally attend Mass, called and asked whether I could serve in the same ministry there too. Then I decided not to question the Lord’s call any further.

The first few weeks when I distributed the Eucharist I felt awed by the presence of God. At times my fingers felt like rubbery thumbs and at other times my heart pounded loudly as if my whole body was vibrating but throughout I felt a deep peace.

Now having been an Extra-ordinary Minister of the Eucharist for more than a year I look forward to every opportunity to distribute the Eucharist because of the immense peace it gives me in sharing Christ with others. I thank God for choosing me to be His instrument in this way.

Mary Rajadurai