Acolytes

The ministry of instituted acolyte is a permanent institution. Because its roots are in the formation of ordained clergy, the ministry is reserved to men. The instituted acolyte is appointed to assist the deacon and serve the priest in celebration of the liturgy. A primary responsibility is to assist with the purification of vessels used in the distribution of Holy Communion. Men must be at least 21 years of age, fully initiated and living an exemplary Christian way of life. They should be experienced sacristans and liturgical ministers. Candidates must be recommended by the pastor and attend Archdiocesan training.

Altar Servers

The privilege of assisting priests at the altar during Mass is reserved for girls and boys who are baptized Catholics, who have made their first Communion, attend Sunday Mass regularly and have their parents’ support. Students in both Catholic and public schools are encouraged to be a part of this ministry. New servers’ training is held during Lent for all students in 4th grade and above. Classes are publicized in the bulletin and throughout the school and religious education programs. Altar server update sessions are held in the fall.

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EM) may choose to assist in the distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ during Mass or by taking Communion to patients in Northwest Memorial Hospital, residents of West Janisch and Bookhollow Heights Nursing Home and Brookdale Nursing Home , and individual parishioners who are homebound. Volunteers must complete Archdiocesan and parish training sessions, after which their names are submitted to the bishop by the pastor to be commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age or seniors in high school and fully initiated in the Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. They also must be persons of genuine Eucharistic faith, live exemplary Catholic lives, be psychologically mature and, if married, must have been married in the Catholic Church.

Lectors

Through this ministry, God’s living Word continues to be proclaimed to His people. Lectors desire to witness to their Christian faith, are concerned that the Word of God is proclaimed well and have an awareness that their reading talents should be shared with the whole community. Training involving Scriptural background and practical skills is required as well as a willingness to attend periodic scripture classes.

Sacristans

Many things need to be done before the Liturgy can take place. Bread, wine, vessels, vestments, liturgical books and candles must be prepared and put in place. These are the roles of the sacristans. Sacristans also welcome other ministers scheduled for the Liturgy and help to assure the continuity and flow of the preparations.

Ushers and Greeters

Among the servants of God who comprise the membership of the Body of Christ, ushers and greeters are called to provide a very special service. They create an atmosphere of welcome, community and order. They welcome all, introduce strangers, distribute worship aids, assist with collections and occasional special activities, assist in the orderly movement of the faithful as they enter and exit the church and during Communion, and ensure that the church is left in order after Mass for the next function.