In today’s parish, it is the understanding that active ministry is the calling of all the baptized, not only to better flesh out the gift of faith, but also to actively serve all people of God. With fewer clergy available to minister to those who are ill or homebound, we are more dependent upon the generosity and giftedness of caring laypersons. In a world in which family members are often separated from one another by great distances, it is more important than ever to maintain a connection to those who can no longer join us at the Eucharistic Table. Ministers of Communion and Pastoral Visitors to the sick and homebound are a lifeline to our brothers and sisters separated from us because of poor health. Training is available to all who are interested.