From March 21–23, 2025, over 40 lay leaders gathered at the serene National Marian Shrine in Dunsinane for a powerful three-day preparatory retreat led by The Most Rev. John D. Persaud, Bishop of Mandeville. The retreat, themed “Pilgrims of Hope: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion—Moving from the Heart to Feet, Openness to God and Others,” offered a rich opportunity for spiritual growth and discernment for those considering the sacred ministry of the Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist.
A Message from the Bishop: From Devotion to Mission
Bishop Persaud opened the retreat with a heartfelt reflection on the profound responsibility and privilege of distributing the Body of Christ. He reminded participants that the Holy Eucharist is not just a symbol—it is a living, transformative encounter with Jesus Himself. To serve at the altar is to serve the Church and one another in humility, reverence, and joy.
“Let your faith move from the heart to the feet,” Bishop Persaud urged. “This ministry is not about prestige—it’s about compassion, presence, and readiness to be Christ’s hands in the world.”
Practical Training Meets Spiritual Formation
Over the weekend, participants engaged in:
- Liturgical workshops exploring the theology and reverence of the Eucharist
- Hands-on sessions on the proper procedures and practices for distribution
- Discussions on pastoral sensitivity in visiting the sick and homebound
- Moments of prayer, Adoration, and reflection to listen for God’s call
The sessions aimed to equip the ministers with both technical knowledge and spiritual depth, empowering them to serve faithfully and confidently.
From Retreat to Mission: Living the Call
As the retreat came to a close, the energy was palpable. Participants left with a deeper understanding of what it means to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion—not just during Mass, but in their daily lives as models of service, reverence, and hope.
Each attendee was invited to spend time in prayer and discernment before formally stepping into the ministry, recognizing the sacred commitment required.
“This is not a one-time training,” said a participant. “This is the beginning of a lifelong journey to bring Christ to others.”
The Diocese’s Commitment to Living Ministry
The Diocese of Mandeville remains steadfast in its mission to form servant leaders who live the Gospel with compassion and integrity. This retreat is one of many steps in building a more active, Eucharistic-centered Church in Jamaica.
📍 Ready to Learn More?
If you feel called to serve as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion in your parish, speak to your parish priest or contact the Diocese of Mandeville Office for Laity and Liturgy.