The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion performs a great service to the Church, by assisting in distribution Holy Communion to God's people on those occasions where there is an insufficient number of Priests and Deacons to distribute Holy Communion to all the faithful present in an orderly and reverent manner in a reasonable way.  It is an honor and a privilege to serve the Church in this capacity, and of course, requires careful preparation on the part of the extraordinary minister.

In each parish that makes use of extraordinary ministers, training and preparation is either done by the pastor or by an individual that he designates for the task.  At St. Rose of Lima candidates for extraordinary ministers are first interviewed by Monsignor Reed and then trained by  Deacon Tom Kennell.  Training provides insight into the theological principles behind the Eucharist, the role of the EM and the teachings of the Church on that subject.  The local norms of the Dioceses of Pensacola-Tallahassee are also covered.  Information specific to St. Rose of Lima Church is also taught and practiced.