Fr Thomas speaking at the formation for EMHCs in Labuan parish of Blessed Sacrament
By SOCCOM CBSL
Oct 26 2023
LABUAN – Fr Thomas Madanan, rector of Labuan parish said the scarcity of priests has led to an increased reliance on Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) to assist in the distribution of the Eucharist.
He said this in a formation session for its Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion held Oct 18 at the Church of Blessed Sacrament here.
He provided valuable insights in the origins, definitions, roles, and responsibilities of EMHCs to 26 ministers who attended the formation.
The family as the domestic church, can serve as a “little seminary” within the home he said. As the family is the first and most fundamental setting where faith is nurtured and transmitted from one generation to the next.
In the context of the scarcity of priestly vocations, family can play a crucial role in fostering and supporting such vocations. Discernment, he said, is necessary to ensure that the appointment of EMHCs is in proportion to the actual need and not merely for convenience.
The Eucharist is a sacred sacrament, and its distribution should be treated with utmost reverence and dignity. Rooted in church documents, the briefing aimed to deepen the understanding and practice of these devoted individuals who play a vital role in the sacramental life of the Church.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion participating in the formation
