Ministers of Hospitality - Ushers
The first people to greet the parishioners when they arrive for Mass and conferring of sacraments are the ushers. They are very instrumental in maintaining reverence and order at the Mass. The dedication of this group sometimes goes unheralded, and they appreciate your prayers.
Altar Servers
This ministry is open to all young people of the parish in the fourth grade and above. The servers assist the celebrant in the preparation of the Mass, and assist throughout the celebration of the Eucharist. Altar servers are also called upon to assist at the Sacraments of First Holy Communion, Confirmation, Matrimony and Funeral Masses. They participate in special Masses for graduations and Holy Days of Lent. The altar servers are strong role models for their peers, and our parish family is forever grateful for their dedication and participation.
Lectors
Lectors proclaim the Word of God at Mass. As stated in the Constitution of the Sacred Liturgy: "He is present in His Word, since it is He Himself who speaks when the Holy Scriptures are read in church". This is a spiritually rewarding way for young adults and others to be trained and encouraged in public speaking. The lectors' involvement in the Mass is critical to a layperson's participation in proclaiming the word of God.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, or Eucharist Ministers participate in the Mass in the distribution of the Eucharist. There is a group of Eucharist Ministers who bring Holy Communion to the homebound. Whether in the sanctuary at Mass or visiting the homebound, there is closeness to Jesus that is very spiritually rewarding.
Ministry of Music
The ministry of hymns and music set the tone of our worship. Our opening song gathers us together. The music and song throughout the Mass reminds us of the readings of the day and the liturgical season. Our Junior Choir participates at the 9:00AM Mass, and the Adult Choirs at the 5:00PM and 11:00AM Masses. All other Masses have a cantor. "He who sings once, prays twice".
Rite of Christian initiation of Adults (RCIA)
The RCIA is a program to help all of us understand and recognize more clearly the presence of Christ in the Church and in our lives. The program is available to:
• Any adult who has a desire to be fully initiated into the Catholic Faith
• Any adult who is a baptized non-Catholic Christian desiring the Catholic Faith
• Any Catholic adult who has not completed the full initiation process (Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation)
• Any adult wishing to deepen their understanding of the Catholic Faith