GIRM Frequently Asked Questions

These Frequently Asked Questions are intended to help in liturgical catechesis in the parishes of the Diocese of Tyler.

October '04  Q: Is it necessary for everyone to remain standing until the last person to receive communion has returned to their pew?

Answer: No, the practice of returning to your pew to kneel or sit and pray is still appropriate. See the official response from Rome on this question.

Jan '03 Q: Would the Bishop prefer that the priest of deacon consume the precious blood, instead of the Extraordinary Communion Minister, after communion if they can easily do so (such as in a small parish)?

Answer: Bishop told the Deacon Council "no preference."

Sept '04 Q: Should chalices of glass or ceramic be eliminated?

Answer: Bishop Corrada has emphasized that sacred vessels should look special, not like an ordinary cup or dish or pitcher. The documents call for sacred vessels to be of nobel quality. In our Diocese: Flagons should be metal, with a lid. Chalices should be metal. Bishop would like to see glass and crystal phased out and replaced with sacred vessels of metal vessels that are readily identified as being for sacred use. Also, all sacred vessels should be kept beautiful with a good quality finish.

1. Question: What is the minimum age requirement for a Communion Minister and Lector in the parish?

Answer: There is no minimum age requirement for Communion Ministers or Lectors. However, it is recommended that they be fully initiated into the church having celebrated Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. Also it is important that they be trained as ministers both in the practice of the ministry and in the theology of the ministry. For Lectors it is important that they be able to "proclaim" the Word, not merely "read" the Sacred Scriptures. As a practical matter the age of 16 might be a good starting age.

2. Question: Are the music ministers supposed to begin playing as soon as father receives communion and then wait until last to receive communion themselves?

Answer: Music ministers may receive at an appropriate time during the communion rite. The vocalists might go to communion while an instrumental is played. If the musicians receive communion after the congregation they should be attentive that the Eucharistic Minister or Priest do not have to wait an inordinate amount of time.

3. Question: Should blessings be given to those who are not able to receive communion during the communion rite?

Answer: In our Diocese the Bishop has asked us to welcome all who come forward during the communion rite. However, a blessing is not appropriate during this time. An invitation to make a spiritual communion and receive Jesus Christ in their heart does seem appropriate. Procedures for such spiritual communion will be forth coming.