Your Part in Worship

Liturgy is literally laos ergos, the work of the people. It is that activity in which all the people (not just the clergy and a select few others) have a part. This understanding is fundamental to the worship of the ancient church, and is being recovered in our time.

Certainly, a person can choose to remain in the pew and exercise the simple but essential ministry of “congregant.” Did you know that the Eucharist couldn't proceed without a congregation? The priest cannot “do it” alone! So just taking that part provided for “the people” is an important liturgical ministry.

But if you are interested in other ways to share in offering our Sunday Eucharist, consider these:

† As and Acolyte (server at the altar) – Acolytes light and extinguish the candles, carry the cross during processions, assist in receiving the gifts and preparing the table for the Eucharist, and in other ways to ensure that services run smoothly. An acolyte must be at least 9 years old, or mature enough to be comfortable apart from parents during the service.

† As an Altar Guild Member – The Altar Guild assists by caring for the vessels, vestments, linens and candles of our worship. Members serve once every four weeks, and cover Sunday and weekday Eucharists and any funerals or weddings in their week. Periodic social gatherings are scheduled during the program year.

† As a Member of the Choir – The choirs provide the primary musical leadership for the Sunday and other special services. Ours are volunteer choirs, and anyone with an interest in singing is welcome to give it a try. You must attend rehearsals to sing on Sundays, and the rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7:15 – 9:00 pm and on Sundays at 9:15 am. (See also the separate brochure on Music at St. John’s.)

† As a Lector (reader of the scripture lessons) – The only qualification for this ministry is that you are comfortable in reading in front of a crowd! Lectors are scheduled at all services throughout the year and, yes, we give you the readings in advance. A member of the congregation is available to give some pointers on reading and speaking in public – speak with one of the clergy if you think this would help you.

† As a Lay Eucharistic Minister – These persons are selected by the clergy and licensed by the bishop to assist in the distribution of the Holy Eucharist, and receive specific training for this ministry. Persons called to this ministry must be active members of the congregation and willing to assist at services other than on Sunday morning (e.g. special Christmas or Holy Week services or occasionally a funeral). In addition to assisting in communion, LEMs also lead the Prayers of the People and on occasion take other roles in the liturgy under the direction of the rector.

† As an Oblationer – These persons assist in presenting the bread, wine, money and in-kind gifts of the congregation at the Offertory of the Eucharist of the later service. This is an easy activity for families to do together.

† As an Usher – Ushers provide welcome and hospitality. They greet people at the door, offer the service bulletin and answer any questions visitors may have. They help find seats when the church is crowded, oversee the collection and presentation of the congregation’s offering, and move people forward in an efficient manner at the time of communion. Then they help to straighten the pews and book racks following the service. Ushers who are able will often help at weekday funerals.