Why are Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion not permitted to bless? 

Recently, we have adopted the new policies from the Archdiocese of Detroit (AOD) on this topic. For many years our Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) have given a blessing to anyone approaching with their arms crossed during Communion. But, recently we found out the AOD teaches that giving a blessing is reserved to the priest during Mass. 

As Catholics, we are accustomed to blessing one another, especially family, which is great outside of the Mass. We have adapted the instruction for EMHC's for when someone approaches with their arms crossed. They are encouraged to not make the sign of the cross and to not give a blessing. Instead they are asked to use phrases like, "Peace be with you", "Receive Jesus in your heart", "Jesus loves you", or something similar as long as it is not a blessing. 

As always, the priests give blessing to anyone approaching with their arms crossed and anyone is welcome to proceed to the Communion line of the priest. We hope you understand the new proceedure and that you will be supportive of our efforts to follow the teaching of the Church. 

Our OCIA program is looking for enthusiastic Catholics to walk with our candidates on their own faith journey. Whether you are a "Cradle Catholic" or went through OCIA personally, we want you! We are looking for program assistants who can help during the OCIA sessions, share your own story and just be a guiding force for our candidates. If you are interested or would like more information, please contact Vicki Krier at [email protected]. Thank you for your consideration!