The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ Himself. Extraordinary ministers assist the priest in the distribution of the Eucharist at Masses, take the Eucharist to the homebound, and assist the clergy in other liturgical celebrations, providing nourishment for the spiritual well-being of the members of the assembly and for the development of their relationship with the Lord.
The faithful who are ill are deprived of their rightful and accustomed place in the Eucharistic community. In bringing Communion to them, the Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion represents Christ, and manifests faith and charity on behalf of the whole community toward those who cannot be present at the Eucharist.