Annual Recollection for EMCs

Msgr Nicholas Ong, seated 3rd left with the EMCs

Tawau : Holy Trinity Parish Tawau conducted a half day recollection for all the Extra Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion on Saturday, 11th June 2011 at the church basement hall. About 50 EMCs attended including some from the outstations.

Peace be with you!

Deep in prayer and reflection

Before the session began, the assistant rector Fr. David Garaman invited all the participants to spend some quiet moments to reflect on their roles and responsibilities as EMCs.

Enthronement of the Holy Bible

The session began with the enthronement of the Bible and the proclamation of the Gospel reading.

Speaker of the session - Rev Fr David Garaman

In his talk, which included a short video clip highlighting the theology and history of the Eucharist, Fr. David told those present that EMC is a special ministry.

As the Eucharist is the peak of our Christian life, those called to the ministry are expected to possess genuine love for God and commitment to the ministry. They should also be dedicated to their families and strive to be the leader and role model of the church--exercising good moral values sustained through regular reception of and devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.

In addition, Fr. David explained that EMCs are appointed in part to reflect the cultural diversity of the parish community, and those appointed should undergo commissioning and periodic formation.

He also touched on some practical aspects when distributing the Blessed Sacrament to the faithful.

In the question and answer slot, many questions were raised by the participants reflecting on their own experiences in the ministry.

Fr David, front row 7th from right with participants

The session ended with an hour of adoration in the Blessed Sacrament chapel.

Commissioning of EMCs

The new EMCs 

During the sunset mass on Pentecost Sunday that evening, the EMCs, together with 3 new members were commissioned by the rector Msgr. Nicholas Ong.

In his address, he said to them:

"As we are one body in Christ, observe the Lord's command to love one another, be examples of Christian living in faith and conduct and strive to grow in holiness through the sacrament of unity and love."

At the same time, the EMCs pledged to be resolved in their office to build up the Church, administer the Holy Eucharist with care, reverence and to take their faith seriously.

Julita, SOCCOM Tawau