Blessing and Commissioning of Persons

Blessings are a part of the liturgy of the Church and typically consists of two parts: first, the proclamation of the Word of God, and second, the praise of God’s goodness and the petition for God’s help.  In this way the blessing derives its meaning and effectiveness from God’s word that is proclaimed and through the Rites and prayers the community praises God and implores divine help.   In order that the assembly are able to participate actively and consciously, the meaning and power of blessings should be understood by the faithful.  

In the life of a parish there is a diversity of services exercised by lay persons.  It is fitting that, as people publicly begin their service, they receive the blessing of God who gives the gifts needed to carry out this work.  Blessings are provided for individuals who exercise pastoral care in a parish or other community, i.e, catechists and members of pastoral councils; or for those who have a special liturgical ministry in the community, i.e., readers, altar servers, sacristans, musicians and ushers.

The Book of Blessings give a wide range of Order of Blessings for all those involved in parish life. This Blessing can be given by a deacon or priest within Mass or during a Celebration of the Word. 

Blessing of Readers

The Reader is appointed by the parish to proclaim the readings from sacred scripture, except the Gospel, in the liturgical Assembly, whether within Mass or other Liturgy.  The Reader is able to recite the psalm when there is no psalmist and to present the intentions for the General Intercessions in the absence of a deacon. The Ministry of Reader is open to lay men and women.

The Word of God lies at the heart of our Christian life and is integral to all our liturgical celebrations.  Those who proclaim the Word of God must be carefully prepared and qualified in order that those in the assembly may develop a warm and lively love for Scripture from listening to the reading of the sacred texts.  

Blessing of Musicians, Altar Servers, Sacristans, & Ushers

The lay people who undertake these ministries are often overlooked, but each and every one of them fulfils a role that is important for the effective implementation of the liturgy.  It is fitting that as people publicly begin their service they receive the blessing of God who gives the gifts needed to carry out this work.  It is for this reason, the Church has provided blessings to support those who exercise their Baptismal calling in this way.

​Commissioning Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

The ordinary Minister of Holy Communion is the office of priest and deacon.  Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are lay men and women who have been commissioned by the pastor and have attained the age of eighteen years of age.  He may do this whenever it seems necessary for the pastoral benefit of the faithful.  

They are commissioned to give communion to the faithful during Mass and, when necessary, to take communion to the hospitalised, the sick and the housebound. Those who exercise this ministry must be truly qualified, and carefully prepared.  They must be an example to all by their reverence and their sincere love for the mystical Body of Christ.

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This article was originally published in ‘Vocations & Ministry.  ©  Diocese of Parramatta.  2005, 2007. Reprinted with permission.