What Is a Pyx?

A pyx is a small, round container used in the Catholic Church to carry consecrated hosts to the sick or homebound so they can receive Holy Communion. It is not a personal possession for the average parishioner, but rather a liturgical tool for a specific ministry: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) to the Sick.

Who is authorized to carry a pyx? Only certain ministers are permitted to use a pyx. In the Catholic Church, this is typically: 1] An instituted acolyte: a layperson formally appointed by the Church to serve at the altar, assisting the priest and deacon in liturgical functions and, when necessary, distributing Holy Communion; 2] An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC) who has been properly trained and commissioned by the pastor; 3] a priest or deacon. These ministers are entrusted with the sacred duty of bringing the Eucharist to those who cannot attend Mass. Anyone presenting a pyx to a priest or minister should be recognized as an authorized EMHC, as unauthorized use could be a serious liturgical offense. The pyx is not for personal use by the faithful; it is a ministry tool. Only trained and commissioned ministers should carry it. If you have a homebound person who cannot attend Mass but would like to receive communion, please call the Pastoral Center (310-540-0329) to arrange for an EMHC for the Sick to administer Holy Communion to the sick and homebound. Please, please do not present a pyx to an EMHC during Holy Communion, requesting a host (or hosts!) for your homebound loved ones