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Some question: why the term, “Extraordinary Minister?” It is not intended to denote that lay Communion ministers are in any way better or hold a higher status because of their ministry. It simply means that a priest or deacon serves as the “Ordinary Minister” of Holy Communion. By virtue of ordination, they are to serve the people of God by distributing the Body and Blood of Christ; this ministry of service is their ordinary role.
This means that whenever priests and deacons are present and vested at Mass, unless some reason prevents them from doing so, they should be ministering Holy Communion before others are called forward. When, however, there are not enough priests or deacons to ministers, members of the faithful may be delegated to carry out this important ministry of service. In order to be well prepared to minister the sacred Body and Blood of Christ, those who function as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion need be baptized, confirmed, in good standing, instructed in the faith and in how to properly carry out the ministry.
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