Particular Norms

To receive the sacred vessels: After the priest has received from the chalice, the extraordinary ministers approach the altar and stand to the side alongside the altar servers. They should not stand behind the priest so as to give the impression of “concelebrating”. Standing behind the priest is a liturgical posture reserved for concelebrants and deacons.

To return the sacred vessels: After the distribution of Holy Communion, the extraordinary ministers approach the altar and bring the chalices (and ciborium) to the priest, usually on the left side. They then return to the foot of the sanctuary and wait for the priest to repose the Blessed Sacrament in the tabernacle. All make a profound bow as the priest genuflects. As the priest returns to the altar to purify the sacred vessels, the extraordinary ministers may depart the sanctuary, come to the base of the sanctuary, bow in unison at the center, and return to their place.