Liturgical Ministry

Liturgical Ministry

Welcome

At SJP2SMCC, we believe that active participation in the liturgy is a powerful way to deepen our faith and serve the Church. Liturgical ministry is not just about fulfilling a role—it’s an opportunity to grow closer to Christ and to foster community through worship. By serving in these sacred roles, you help create a reverent, prayerful environment that enriches the experience of all who gather. Serving at the altar, reading the Scriptures, or assisting with the Eucharist allows you to actively participate in the spiritual life of our parish.

Our Liturgical Ministry includes various roles, with Altar Servers playing a key part in assisting the priests during the celebration of the Eucharist and other sacramental rites. Whether you’re interested in serving at the altar, assisting with readings, or supporting special liturgical functions, we welcome your involvement.

We believe that each act of service in the liturgy brings us into a deeper communion with God and with one another. We invite you to join us in these ministries, offering your time and talent to help make our worship experience more meaningful for everyone.

Becoming an altar server is also a wonderful way for young people (and adults!) to grow in faith, develop a deeper understanding of the Mass, and serve their parish community.

How You Can Get Involved

There are several ways you can contribute to the Liturgical Ministry, whether you are interested in serving as an altar server or supporting other aspects of the liturgy. Below are some key roles within our ministry:

1. Altar Servers

  • Role: Altar servers assist the priest and deacon during the Mass and other liturgical celebrations. They help set the altar, carry sacred objects, assist with the offertory, and perform other duties to support the liturgy.
  • Open to: Children (age [10]) through adults. We invite young people who have made their Solemn Holy Communion to join.
  • Requirements: Training sessions are required. Altar servers should have a reverent attitude, a willingness to serve, and a basic understanding of the Mass.

2. Lectors (Readers)

  • Role: Lectors proclaim the Word of God from the Old Testament, Psalms, and New Testament (except for the Gospel). They also lead the prayers of the faithful during Mass.
  • Open to: Anyone with a love for Scripture and the ability to read publicly. Training is provided to help you become comfortable with this important ministry.

3. Eucharistic Ministers

  • Role: These ministers assist the priest in the distribution of the Eucharist during Mass. They may also bring Communion to the homebound or assist with the preparation of the sacred vessels.
  • Open to: Confirmed members of the parish who are in good standing with the Church. Training is required.

4. Sacristans

  • Role: Sacristans prepare the church and altar for liturgies, ensuring that all the necessary items (such as altar linens, chalices, and vestments) are ready for the priest and deacon.
  • Open to: Volunteers who are detail-oriented and committed to preparing the sacred space for worship.

5. Ushers and Greeters

  • Role: Ushers and greeters help make parishioners feel welcome as they arrive at church. They assist with seating, handing out bulletins, and guiding the collection of offerings.
  • Open to: All parishioners who enjoy being a friendly face for newcomers and long-time parishioners alike.

Why Serve as an Altar Server?

Serving as an altar server is not just a way to assist at Mass—it is an opportunity for spiritual growth and discipleship. Here are some benefits of joining the Altar Server Ministry:

  • Deepen your faith: Serving at the altar helps you experience the liturgy in a new and intimate way. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Mass and a closer connection to God.
  • Build a sense of community: As an altar server, you’ll form meaningful relationships with others who share your love for the liturgy.
  • Learn discipline and reverence: The altar server ministry encourages personal growth, responsibility, and respect for the sacred.
  • Be a witness to others: By serving at the altar, you help create a reverent and prayerful environment for the entire congregation, leading others to a deeper experience of worship.

How to Sign Up

We invite everyone—children, teens, and adults—to consider becoming part of our Liturgical Ministry. If you feel called to serve as an altar server or in any other liturgical role, please please contact our Liturgical Ministry Coordinator Joby Kuriakose.

Altar Server Training

If you’re interested in becoming an altar server, we provide comprehensive training to ensure you understand your role and responsibilities. Training sessions cover everything from the basic movements during Mass to the reverence required in handling the sacred objects. Altar servers are given ongoing support to help them grow spiritually through their service.

Upcoming Training Dates:

  • Altar Server Training: TBD
  • Refresher Training (for current servers): TBD

To sign up for training or for more information, please contact our Liturgical Ministry Coordinator Joby Kuriakose.