Dear Christine:

Mr. Slavek has retired as host of this forum after an incredible 17 years of faithful and excellent service in this apostolate.

In the solemn exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, which is assisted by servers and incense is used, a priest or deacon is authorized.

In a simple exposition, either by opening the tabernacle or placing the Host in a monstrance, can be done by an instituted acolyte or by an authorized extraordinary minister of the Eucharist.

Source and for more information: Father Edward McNamara, A ZENIT DAILY DISPATCH

I am confused about why anyone would add more hosts to the tabernacle. This would be done during Holy Mass to provide for the needs of the sick and shut-ins. Where is this layman getting the hosts? The GIRM states: The priest "either consumes them at the altar or carries them to the place designated for the reservation of the Eucharist" (nos. 162, 163).

As for placing unconsecrated hosts in the tabernacle, this is not done. Consecrated hosts are not to be taken from the tabernacle unless absolutely necessary. The Norms for the Distribution of Holy Communion Under Both Kinds. No. 30 states, "As a general rule, Holy Communion is given from hosts consecrated at the same Mass and not from those reserved in the tabernacle."

Redeptionis Sacramentum warns of the danger of an inappropriate broadening of duties entrusted to extraordinary ministers (cf. no. 156).

I think your concerns about the laymen "adding" hosts to the tabernacle is justified.

In a simple exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, however, a layman may enter the Tabernacle and place the host in the monstrance. What does "rest of the hosts" mean? The host for exposition should already be in the Tabernacle.

I would ask your pastor about this.

God Bless,
Bro. Ignatius Mary