Having covered the “Why” and the “How”, we conclude this week with the ever-important aspect of caring for the Eucharist. We must be remindful that in each Host, even each particle, Jesus, the King of the Universe, is fully present… Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity! Because of this, the Catholic Church has established a instructions to following when bringing Holy Communion to the Homebound.
- The Eucharist must be carried in a pyx, preferably in a pouch worn around the neck. A pyx may be obtained at the Parish Office. The Blessed Sacrament should never be carried by another means, such as a tissue, handkerchief or plastic bag.
- During Mass, after you receive Holy Communion, present the Pyx and ask for the number of Hosts you need.
- After Mass, go directly to the homebound. It is inappropriate to go for breakfast, do errands, or keep the Host for a period of time.
- If you are going to the homebound at another time, come to the Parish Office. A Staff Member will assist in getting the needed hosts from the Tabernacle.
- The Eucharist should never be kept in one’s possession except in transit to the homebound. Never take extra Hosts to be kept for another day.
- If you were not able to give the Host to whom you brought it, return immediately to the Parish Office. If that is not possible, then you may consume it, as a last recourse. Note: “Consuming” is not the same as self-communicating the Host.
- If Host becomes contaminated (i.e. communicant spits-up, falls on dirty floor, etc.), wrap it in a tissue, dissolve it in a cup of warm water then bury it in soil (preferably behind bushes, etc. where no access to walking, pets, or machinery) or bring back to the Parish Office.
- After dispersing Communion, purify the pyx – 1) Consume any remaining part of a host, 2) Place water in the pyx, 2) let the particles dissolve 3) drink it, 4) sanitize with soap and water.
I hope that this series help bring awareness, information, and a deepen love and respect for Jesus in the Eucharist, the ministry of bringing Holy Communion to the Homebound, and our fellow parishioners and community that are homebound.
If you have any questions or are interested in becoming a Homebound EMHC, contact Mike Aprile at mikea@stisidore.church or 586.286.1700 x2120.
“If angels could be jealous of men, they would be so for one reason: Holy Communion. “
— St Maximilian Kolbe
