Q: I believe I remember there was a directive from a few years ago indicating that only priests or deacons can purify the vessels at Mass. My question is, does this apply to outside Mass? For instance, if one wanted to combine two ciborium in the tabernacle into one, would a lay person be allowed to purify the empty ciborium?
I appreciate any guidance you can provide. Thanks.
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A: It applies only to Mass. When bringing communion to the sick, for example, a lay minister is expected to purify the vessel after giving communion. In the situation you describe, a lay minister who combines the vessels outside Mass may purify the empty ones.