September 17, 2023, 12:00 PM

The book the Priest uses at Mass is called the Roman Missal. It contains all the prayers and rubrics necessary to celebrate Mass. It also contains the directions for its use called, the General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM). GIRM no. 182 says, “After the Priest’s Communion, the Deacon receives Communion under both kinds from the Priest himself and then assists the Priest in distributing Communion to the people. If Communion is given under both kinds, the Deacon himself administers the Chalice to the communicants.” Clergy are the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion. If additional ministers are needed, so as to not prolong the Liturgy, the Pastor may commission Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs). They may distribute Holy Communion under both kinds. GIRM no. 183 states, “When the distribution of Communion is over, the Deacon returns to the Altar with the Priest, collects the fragments, should any remain, and then carries the Chalice and other sacred vessels to the credence table, where he purifies them… it is also permissible… to purify them immediately after Mass, following the Dismissal of the people.” The EMHCs also bring their sacred vessels to the Altar with the Priest and Deacon. Now you know!