Ash Wednesday

Father Mateo (76776.306@compuserve.com)
08 Mar 96 10:52:55 EST

To: cinaskf@catinfo.cts.com
960221.01
> From: Radu <markm@epix.net>
> Date: Wed, 21 Feb 1996 11:22:16 -0500 (EST)
> Subject: Eucharistic ministers
>
> Hello Father, Is it proper or acceptable for eucharistic
> ministers to distribute ashes on Ash Wednesday?
> markm@epix.net

Dear Mark,

The Book of Blessings, chapter 32, no. 1062 says: "This rite
(of blessing and distribution of ashes on Ash Wednesday)
maybe celebrated by a priest or deacon, who may be assisted
by lay ministers in the distribution of the ashes. The
blessing of the ashes, however, is reserved to a priest or
deacon."

Note that the wording is LAY ministers, but not specifically
EUCHARISTIC ministers.

Sincerely in Christ,
Father Mateo

- Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit -

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