Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) are those recommended by their pastors and their Deacons to assist with the distribution of Holy Communion.
There are two types of appointments:
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion at Mass -- Assists when the ordained ministers (priests and deacons) need assistance to distribute communion in a timely manner to those who are present at Mass.
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion outside of Mass -- Appointed to bring communion to the sick and elderly.
Qualifications of an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
Must be 18 years old and have received all the sacraments of initiation.
Must be "deeply imbued with the spirit of the liturgy, and they must be trained to perform their functions in a correct and orderly manner"
Must be in good standing in the Church and have no public opposition to Church teachings.
Should be a public witness to the faith and recognized as such in the parish where they minister.