What if….
… someone does not consume the host right away?
We need to ensure that the communicant consumes the host immediately.
This does not happen often, but occasionally, someone will not consume the host and will just walk away with it. If this happens, we must address the communicant and let them know they must consume the eucharist.
…a consecrated host falls to the floor?
If the communicant does not pick it up, you should. You may offer it to them if they want it, but if they do not, it is okay. You may consume or hold it separately, and when you return to the credence table, place it in the absolution cup. Let the MC know, and they will inform the priest. They will dissolve it in water and pour it down the sacrarium.
…I see I am running out of Hosts?
If only a few people are in line, you may go to another minister/Priest and ask for additional hosts if they seem to have enough.
…a communicant or I spill the Precious Blood?
Place your purificator over the spill. Let the MC know of the spill immediately so they may help. Go directly to the credence table and get an additional purificator. Return and continue distributing communion if you are still needed. Then, after Mass, take additional purificators to the area and soak up all the Precious Blood. Take these purificators to the sacristy and rinse them well in the sacrarium. (Should we rinse it out in the sink and Wring them out and hang them on a dry)
…a child approaches, and you are unsure if they are old enough?
Ask a nearby parent/caregiver or the child if they have made their First Communion.
…I am sick?
It’s best not to distribute communion if you are sick. Please let your captain know that you are ill and will not be able to serve. Also please try to find a substitute to cover for you.