These individuals also aid the minister in consuming any remaining elements after the distribution has been completed, although some of it is reserved to be taken to the sick in hospitals and in their homes.
[4] As stated in Canon Law, "The ordinary minister of holy communion is a bishop, presbyter, or deacon.
[6] Section 154 of RS states: "the only minister who can confect the Sacrament of the Eucharist in persona Christi is a validly ordained Priest.
[10] The term "Ordinary" refers to the fact that ordained ministers are the ones who would ordinarily assist in the distribution of Holy Communion.
The shortage of ordained ministers, and large numbers of communicants, has led to the practice of deputing lay persons for this function.