Altar Servers perform many tasks before, during and after Mass. Servers carry the cross and processional candles, hold the book for the priest when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and censer, present the bread, wine and water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts, assist the priest when he receives the gifts from the people and generally assists during the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Formerly called Eucharistic Ministers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) are lay persons who have been commissioned to distribute Holy Communion. The term "extraordinary" distinguishes such a person from the ordinary (normal, regular) minister of Holy Communion, namely a bishop, priest or deacon. EMHCs present the Body and Blood of Christ to those who approach for Holy Communion. EMHCs are appointed to aid in the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass and to the sick and homebound when ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are unavailable.
A greeter welcomes people coming in and out of church. Greeters hold open doors (weather permitting), distribute hymnals and distribute bulletins.
Lectors minister to the community by proclaiming the Word of God during the liturgy. Lectors have the challenge to bring the reading and telling of Scriptures to life.
Music Ministers serve the community by helping to lead the assembly in song during the liturgy. Instrumentalists are musicians who support singing of the assembly and enhance the prayer of the Church. Soloists are those singers who share their gift of song with the assembly by supplementing the community’s voice with harmonization and musical artistry.
Sacristans serve the community by helping the priest attend to the details of preparing for the liturgy. Their service includes setting up the vessels, hosts and wine needed for each Mass as well as cleaning and putting vessels away. In addition, the sacristan fills any last minute ministerial vacancies at each Mass.
The primary role of an Usher is to help people feel welcome and comfortable when they come to church. Ushers are an outward sign of our parish’s hospitality and commitment to Christian service. Ushers also facilitate the communion procession, gather the weekly offering, direct the gift bearers and attend to the needs of the parishioners as necessary.