Liturgical Ministries

As the Constitution on the Liturgy states:
The Church earnestly desires that all the faithful be led to that full, conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations called for by the very nature of the liturgy. Such participation by the Christian people as 'a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people' is their right and duty by reason of their baptism.
In response to this high call, we recognize our obligation to offer liturgical celebrations which engage the community in mind, body, heart and spirit. We strive to accomplish this through the active participation of many individuals in a variety of liturgical ministries.

Lectors/Commentators:
Lectors are members of the parish who proclaim the Word of God in our parish liturgies. The role of Commentator, a ministry separate from that of the Lector, is one of welcoming the community at the beginning of liturgy, reading the intercessions in the Prayer of the Faithful, and making any announcements. Training sessions, workshops and renewal opportunities are provided for both of these liturgical ministries. Interested adult and high school parishioners wishing to develop the skills needed for these ministries are welcome at any time.

Ministers of Communion:
These ministers are confirmed members of the parish who are commissioned for a 3 year period to assist with communion. Some ministers also bring communion and the prayers of our faith community to the sick and to those confined to their homes. New ministers are generally trained on a 3 year cycle. The newly confirmed are trained each year.

Gift Presenters:
This ministry is open to families or individuals who wish to present the gifts of bread and wine on behalf of the Assembly at our parish liturgies. Gift presenters are welcome at any time.

Art and Environment:
These ministers devote their efforts to creating a worship space that speaks of the liturgical season being celebrated-one of sacredness and hospitality. They work closely with the Liturgy Committee. New ministers are welcome at any time.

Music Ministers:
These ministers assist the assembly in sung prayer at our parish liturgies as cantors, accompanists, members of ensemble groups and instrumentalists. A youth music ensemble provides music ministry for the 9:00 AM liturgy on the second Sunday of each month, and young musicians are welcome to minister at other liturgies as well. New youth and adult music ministers are welcome at any time.

Mass Servers:
This ministry is available to girls and boys of our parish, beginning in the 5th grade. Young people desiring to assist at our liturgies in this special way must attend training sessions as well as periodic updates.

Hospitality Ministers:
These ministers welcome all who come to worship, receiving the offerings of monetary support, assisting worshippers during the communion rite, and being available to help with any emergency which may arise during the liturgy. Men and women interested in getting involved in this ministry are welcome at any time. On the second Sunday of each month, some of our high school youth also join the adults in this important ministry of welcoming.

Liturgical Volunteers:
These are the ministries of parish volunteers, both young and old, which
are part of our liturgical celebrations. They include participation in
the Sprinkling Rite during Easter season; Gospel Processions in Christmas
and Easter seasons; and Candle Bearers at the liturgies for Remembrance of
the Deceased. Also included are volunteers to assist with setting up
worship environments during liturgical seasons, and making telephone
contacts to schedule participation by those who have indicated a desire to
be part of these minsitries.

Funeral Ministers:
Many members of the parish offer assistance to families at the death of a loved one. When a death occurs, family members meet with someone on the Parish Staff to make arrangements for the vigil service, funeral liturgy, and burial. During the funeral liturgy, parishioners are available to assist as Music Ministers, Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Servers, and Ministers of Hospitality. New funeral liturgy ministers are always welcome. If a funeral dinner at the parish is desired, the Funeral Dinner Committee will serve the dinner and provide table settings, salad and desserts. The family secures a caterer to provide the main meal and beverages. Families wishing to arrange a funeral dinner, or parishioners willing to assist in this ministry please contact the parish office or call 563-588-1433.

If you would like to minister in one of these areas contact Dick Beaves.

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