Communion to the Sick and Homebound: Bringing Christ to Those in Need throughout Our Community

Rosemary Miller has always had a deep love and appreciation for the Eucharist. She feels it is a great privilege to bring Christ, in the Eucharist, to members of the Cathedral of Christ the King as part of the Communion to the Sick and Homebound Ministry. Rosemary has been coordinating this ministry for about 15 years.

“Ever since I made my First Communion, I’ve loved the Eucharist,” she says. “For many years, I have wanted to bring our Lord to those who aren’t able to go to the church.”

Currently, volunteers bring Holy Communion to about 35 people, some at home and others in nursing homes, the hospital, and assisted living facilities. Before the pandemic, nearly double that number received the Eucharist. The pandemic has kept some places closed to visitors. Many volunteers stick with the same person each week, allowing flexibility when they go. There are currently about 25 members who can be called upon for this ministry.

“I miss not bringing Communion to as many people,” Rosemary says. “It was fulfilling to see people receive Communion. Many of them receive strength from Communion.”

For Rosemary, it has truly been a blessing to get to know people through this ministry. Some are a quick visit, while she has spent a bit of time with to talk and visit with others. Sadly, she couldn’t say her last goodbyes with some, as they had passed away since the start of the pandemic. She feels blessed, though, each time she brings our Lord to someone.

“It’s so beautiful to see their response to receiving the Eucharist,” Rosemary says.

When churches were closed at the onset of the pandemic, Rosemary, like most of us, turned to watching Mass online. It was difficult for her not to receive the Eucharist. The separation helped solidify the importance of the Eucharist for Rosemary.

“The first time I received the Eucharist again, I was just moved to tears,” she says.

Rosemary would encourage others to consider giving their time to this beautiful ministry. Volunteers are trained and given a book of prayers.

“When you help someone, they end up helping you more,” she says. “I have found that to be true. I have had several people who are hesitant to get involved come back and tell me how thankful they are that they started bringing Communion to the sick and homebound.”

If you would like to request the Eucharist to be brought to you or someone you know, or to get involved in this ministry, please call Rosemary Miller at 859-321-3684.

(Front, from left) Diane Lovell and Rosemary Miller; (back, from left) Clarke Keller and Pat McCartt