The praying of the Liturgy is the most important thing that we as Catholics do. If you desire to participate even more in the Mass or other liturgical actions, check out some of the ministries in our Liturgical Commission below. Contact the church office for more information!
The mission of our altar servers is to assist at the altar at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Altar servers can be anyone who has received their First Holy Communion. Altar serving is a wonderful opportunity especially for those young men who are contemplating a call to the priesthood; such a service prepares their hearts for a life given at the altar in charity. Girls and women are also welcome to serve at the altar in order to grow in their relationship with Jesus the Bridegroom.
The Altar Society shall consist of parishioners dedicated to keeping the altar, sanctuary, and vestibule prepared for celebrations of the Eucharist. The Altar Society has bylaws that are voted on every two years with the election of officers. We have expanded the duties to the cleaning of the church. The Altar Society is also responsible for Bereavement, the praying of the Rosary for funerals, and the St. Joseph Altar. The Altar Society meet quarterly on the third Wednesday of January, April, July, and October.
To assist the Priest when necessary in distributing the Precious Body and Blood of Christ during the celebration of the Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Ministers must be at least 18 years old, in good standing with the parish, and living and practicing their faith daily. They are expected to participate in any training and/or classes that may be required. Schedules are issued quarterly. If a scheduling conflict occurs, it is the responsibility of the Extraordinary Minister to secure a substitute. The group occasionally meets for meetings, practice, training, socials, etc.
Liturgical Environment prepares the décor of the church in accordance to the Liturgical Season. This ministry works closely with the Altar Society to prepare the church for special feast days (Christmas and Easter) and promotes a working relationship with the priest and other lay-people in preparing special liturgies. This ministry decorates the church to enhance the Mass.
In the ministry of readers, individuals do their utmost to prayerfully proclaim the Old and New Testament readings from Sacred Scripture. Readers share in the privilege of proclaiming the Word of God at all Sunday Masses and other liturgies, and offering the intentions for the Prayers of the Faithful. Being a reader also calls for sacrifice-an investment in time and energy to effectively communicate the Sacred Scriptures to the people of Holy Savior.
Musicians assisting in the celebration of the Liturgy seek to create-by instrumental or vocal renditions-a desire in the congregation to deepen their prayer, appreciate the Mass, foster reverence in their hearts, go forth to spread a new and wider understanding of their faith, and strive for unity. Our music ministry consists of the Harmony Choir, the Mixed Choir, the Guitar Group, and individual song leaders with an organist. Music is chosen to enhance the liturgy. A mass schedule is issued by the chairperson of music ministry which indicates who is responsible for the individual masses and suggested music. Music for weddings and funerals is arranged through the rectory, and a family member is responsible for contacting the musician of choice.
The purpose of the Sacristan is to prepare the church for the liturgies and to insure that the liturgical appointments are returned to their proper places. The sacristan oversees and keeps in order the worship space (including the sanctuary, the nave, and the gathering area) and the sacristy. The sacristan is the person who is appointed to prepare everything needed for the liturgy.
“Lord, You gather all Your people into church.” Ushers desire to serve the faith community by welcoming members and visitors to the celebration of the Eucharist. The ushers help serve the congregation in a Christ-like manner; greeting all when they enter the church and finding them seating; being alert to the needs of all in a prayerful, patient and helpful way; tending to collections and bulletins; and monitoring what is taking place at all times, so there will be no interruption of the Mass.