Miedo al tiempo, miedo al silencio

Jorge González Guadalix argues that the use of extraordinary ministers to distribute Holy Communion is often driven by an unnecessary fear of lengthening the Mass. Writing for InfoCatólica, Guadalix suggests that unless a celebration has an extraordinary number of attendees, the priest should distribute Communion himself, even if it adds a few minutes to the service.

Guadalix claims that other elements of the liturgy typically cause more delays than the distribution of Communion. He lists long homilies, introductions, various commentaries, the procession of gifts, and excessive announcements as primary reasons for extended celebrations.

The author also addresses a perceived fear of silence during the liturgy. He questions whether it is mandatory to sing continuously while Communion is being distributed and suggests that choir members should not feel obligated to sing constantly just to fill the time while people remain in line. He notes that while a song should be finished if it has already begun, the pressure to avoid silence often contributes to time management issues during the Mass.