The celebration and reception of the Eucharist are fundamental as a sacrament in the Catholic faith. We often take for granted the ability to attend Mass and receive the body and blood of Christ; some are less fortunate. That is why the Catholic Community of St. Francis has eucharistic ministers who tend to those unable to attend Mass regularly. Shannon Hoffman, coordinator of the homebound ministry, explains, “Our ministry to the homebound and senior community parishioners focuses on sharing the love and teachings of Jesus with those who cannot attend Mass regularly due to illness or age-related challenges. We provide spiritual support, companionship, and the comfort of faith to individuals in their homes or care facilities.”
We have many eucharistic ministers who serve at Masses they attend. Bringing the Eucharist to those who can’t participate in Mass is a bit more time-consuming. “The dedication of our ministers plays a vital role in enhancing the lives of those we serve, reminding them that they are cherished members of our community and ensuring they continue to feel connected to their faith,” says Shannon. Mary Cockrill is a volunteer in this ministry, and she knows the value of the connection. “We will schedule weekly visits for communion to 3-4 homebound people in roughly the same area. We have 4-5 ministers who go out each week.” Mary has developed a special bond with two women in a group home in the area. “Since I have my two girls,’ Mary says, “I said I would see them weekly. One of them will only take communion from me.” One of the women has difficulty speaking and only feels comfortable receiving the sacrament from her. Their relationship speaks to the value of this ministry.
“One of the fundamental ways we grow in our faith and strengthen our Catholic identity is through loving and being loved,” says Shannon. “By serving those unable to serve themselves, we embody Christ’s call to care for one another.” The ministry also reaches out to many of the senior communities in the area, including Springmoor, The Meadows, Capital Oaks, Magnolia Glen, and Abbotswood. That is often a larger gathering of parishioners within these communities with a communion or prayer service. Each of those communities has a separate ministry contact found on the list of ministries page on the website here. Visiting parishioners in need and praying with them allows the forming of meaningful connections and fosters a sense of belonging and support by the church in those they serve.
Shannon explains, “This mutual exchange of love and compassion enriches the lives of those we serve and deepens our faith as ministers.” Mary adds, “Sometimes the homebound haven’t seen anybody, outside of their spouse or caregiver, in a week, and these visits can be a very social experience too; sometimes they are hungry for social interaction.” A recent example illustrates this beautifully, says Shannon: “A parishioner living 30 minutes away needed assistance, and rather than directing them to a closer church, I reached out to our Eucharistic Ministers to see if anyone could visit. One of our EMs stepped up and was able to bring communion weekly until the parishioner recovered. This willingness to help one another reflects our commitment to living out our faith and being a true community of compassion and support.”
“For anyone interested in getting involved with the EM to Senior Centers/Homebound ministry at St. Francis,” says Shannon, “my advice is to approach this calling with an open heart and a willingness to serve.” The parishioners they visit are incredibly grateful for their presence, and simply being there for them can make a significant difference in their day. Offering the Body of Christ and companionship can bring comfort and joy to those who may feel isolated. As Mother Teresa said, “If you have a sick or lonely person at home, be there. Maybe just to hold a hand and give a smile, that is the greatest, the most beautiful work.”