MINISTRIES \ St. Mary's Episcopal Church


		MINISTRIES We are called by Christ to serve. Acolytes Acolytes assist the clergy during all liturgies held in the Parish. Acolytes light the candles, assist at the offertory and communion. Ongoing training is provided for this devoted group of individuals. Altar Guild The parish Altar Guild is responsible for the preparation of the sanctuary for all liturgical celebrations. Their dedication and loving care for all vessels, vestments, linens, candles and flowers is evident in the smooth liturgical operation of the parish. Christian Formation Sunday School, Adult Education, Alpha. Education for Ministry and Cursillo. Eucharistic Ministers Eucharistic Ministers administer the elements during services of Holy Communion. Lay Leaders Lay Leaders are also know as Master of Ceremonies. They are also licensed as Lay Readers. They serve the Parish Priest in organizing, teaching and leading the Altar Servers at all services. They are in charge of the details of the service. Their ministry is to make sure the services proceed without complications and errors. They assist in providing an atmosphere of reverence and holiness, free of distractions in the Sanctuary for the priest and the congregation. Lectors Lectors proclaim the lessons and lead the Prayers of the People during services of Holy Eucharist. There is on-going training to maintain a high standard of excellence. Music Ministry Music at St. Mary's is a very important aspect of the liturgical life of the Church. The Parish Choir provides musical leadership at the 10:00 a.m. Choral Liturgy beginning the first week of October continuing through the Easter season. Professional cantors provide leadership for all other liturgies. Concerts and recitals are held in the church throughout the year. Ministers of Hospitality Ushers and Greeters meet, welcome and assist members and visitors at St. Mary's Church during the weekend liturgies. Outreach Pennywise Thrift Shop was established in 1988. The purpose of the organization is to raise funds for St. Mary's Parish and the church's commitment to outreach. The store is located on the parish campus and is open six days a week and is operated by over 100 volunteers. The Women of St. Mary's group meets monthly for lunch followed by a speaker. The organization hold several fundraisers a year with the resulting monies given to local charities. Pastoral Care Lay Eucharistic Visitors are licensed by the bishop and are trained to administer the sacrament of Holy Communion to people in their homes, hospital rooms or nursing facilities. Healing Ministry was started December 1999. The laying on of hands and anointing with holy oil is available at all services conducted in the church. This ministry is also made available to those who cannot attend worship services. ©2007, St. Mary's Episcopal.