Liturgical Ministers serve the worship needs of the parish in a variety of ways. They serve as lectors, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, members of the choir or cantors, Mass coordinators, and ushers.  Some decorate the church for liturgical feasts and seasons.

Usually a person chooses to participate in one ministry. After a brief orientation to the ministry, you will be placed on a schedule to begin serving Saint Mary Parish.

You may contact us or call the parish office (321-1207) and ask to leave a message for the coordinator of the specific ministry in which you are interested. Thank you for your interest in serving as a liturgical minister!

Below is a description of some of the liturgical ministries in our parish.  Other ministries may be found on the pages for lectors and communion ministers, and choir, cantor, and contemporary music ministry.

Decorating the Church is done for major liturgical seasons and feasts, with flowers, fabric hangings, or other materials.   

 

Mass Coordinators play an important role before and after Mass.  They set out the communion vessels and linens before Mass, and see that enough bread and wine are prepared for the community.  They make sure that the other ministers are present and ready to serve.  After Mass, they see that everything is in its place or ready for the next Mass.   

 

Servers assist the priest and members of the congregation during the liturgy.  They lead the entrance procession and hold the book for the priest when he lifts his hands to pray in our name.  They help prepare the altar before the Eucharistic prayer, and do various tasks on special occasions such as carrying incense or holy water.  Children are eligible to become altar servers in 5th grade.  Adults serve at morning Masses during the week. 

 

Ushers greet members of the congregation as they arrive for Mass and help find seating if needed.  They arrange for people to bring up the bread and wine, take up the collection, and assist with the communion procession.  Ushers are attentive to special needs, such as seeing that communion is brought to those who need the ministers to come to their pew. 

 

Bringing up the gifts – This ministry is not scheduled ahead of time.  Three people are needed at each Sunday Mass to carry the bread and wine and collection from the midst of the congregation up to the altar.  Anyone who would like to do this may approach an usher near the main entrance of church before Mass.