Ever since Vatican II in 1962, the role of the lay person has become very important in the Church. This is most evident when we go Mass. There are now a number of ministries that work together to make the celebration of the Mass a holy and memorable experience. The ministers you see every Sunday are : Sacristan, Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Altar Servers, Greeters, and Ushers. Each of their individual roles adds to the overall holy experience of the Mass.
Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion:
An Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is a layperson commissioned by the Pastor who assists the priests and deacons during the Mass in the distribution of Holy Communion. Those serving in this ministry must be 16 years of age, a practicing Catholic in good standing and must have participated in a diocesan training program. Teens must have received Confirmation. For more information, about this ministry, please contact the Parish Office.
Lectors:
Lectors are the men and women who proclaim the first or second reading at Mass. This person also may read the Universal Prayers during Mass when a deacon is not present. This ministry requires that you be a practicing Catholic, at least 16 years of age and receive Diocesan training.
If you are interested in serving in this ministry, please contact the parish office.
Hospitality Ministers:
Ministers of hospitality are men and women who greet parishioners and guests participating in the Mass and other liturgical services, help them with seating, provide directions or assistance, distribute the offertory baskets, pass out bulletins after Mass and see that the church is tidied up after each celebration. For information about serving in this ministry, please contact the Parish Office.
Altar Servers:
Altar Servers assist the priest at liturgical celebrations. Training is required to be an alter server. Classes are held periodically throughout the year and are announced in the Sunday Bulletin. The ministry is open to all parish members in 4th grade or above who have received First Communion. Parent’s permission is also required. For more information about this ministry, please contact the Parish Office.
Sacristans:
Sacristans are women and men who care for the Church Sanctuary, including the sacred vessels, altar linens and other articles used in our Eucharistic and other liturgical celebrations. They also assist with our decorations for the liturgical seasons. Additional volunteers are always welcome. For further information, please contact the Parish Office.