Depending on the number of Mass attendees regularly coming to receive the Holy Eucharist, Extraordinary Ministers are often required to assist the Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. These Ordinary Ministers are bishops, priests, and deacons, who have been ordained by God, to be such. Back before the Second Vatican Council, the Ordinary Ministers were the only ones who could be in the sanctuary, let alone distribute Communion.
     Since the council, the laity has the opportunity (when pastorally acceptable) to distribute Communion, as Extraordinary Ministers. Now, pastorally acceptable has a broad definition, but for the purposes of St. Mary's Cathedral, we commission Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for the main reason that the number of Mass-goers warrants it.  
       Being commissioned as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at St. Mary's Cathedral is by invitation only. We hope that any time the Rector invites you to be part of this ministry, you would joyfully agree. For more information about this ministry, email: resource@stmaryscalgary.ca