Today at the Cathedral Bishop Patrick commissioned ninety-five new Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for our Diocese. Among them was Patricia Clews from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. Our parish was also represented by four of our musicians who sang with the Diocesan choir at the Mass.
Bishop Patrick told us in his homily that, when people are asked to take on this ministry, they often respond that they don't feel worthy. The Bishop said that none of us are worthy, but the Lord gives the necessary graces to those he calls and commissions.
He encouraged those to be commissioned to spend regular time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. He also reminded them to be careful of the language they use when speaking of the wonderful Sacrament they administer. What is brought to the altar at the offertory is bread and wine. Once consecrated it is no longer bread and wine: it has become the true Body and precious Blood of the Lord. The way we speak of this Sacrament should always reflect our faith in the real presence.
Thank you, Patricia, for embracing this wonderful ministry. May you be a blessing to our parishioners at Holy Mass, and to our sick and housebound brothers and sisters who receive Holy Communion at Home.