LEADERSHIP AT OUR SERVICES

Acolytes

Acolytes are an integral part of our Sunday services. They lead the procession with the cross and lighted candles and assist the celebrant at the altar. It is a great way to introduce our youth to the love of liturgy and develop a personal, working relationship with the rector. 

 

Altar Guild

The Altar Guild is a dedicated group of behind-the-scenes workers who prepare the altar for services, maintain the sacristy and arrange the altar flowers.

Those who prepare the altar for services are responsible for setting up all worship and special services, housekeeping of the chancel, polishing silver and brass and laundering the altar linens. These dedicated people work as a team on assigned weeks and describe their work as a rewarding ministry and an important part of their spiritual life. There is always room for new members who are welcomed by a mentor who will walk you through the learning process.

Flower Arrangers

Flower Arrangers work on a rotating basis creating flower arrangements for Sunday and holiday services. After Sunday services, they deliver the flowers to parishioners in hospitals, shut-ins , anyone needing a visit, as well as those who are celebrating special occasions.  No particular skills are required, as each person brings his or her individual style to the arrangement, creating a fresh look on the altar each Sunday. Again, new volunteers are always welcome, with a mentor to help in the learning process.

Licensed Eucharistic Ministers

Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMS) are licensed by the Diocese to assist the rector during worship services and bring communion to individuals who are unable to attend services. Our clergy bring All Saint’s Day, Christmas and Easter communion to shut-ins, but the LEMS provide needed support on a weekly basis.  Eucharistic Ministers also make monthly visits to local assisted living and nursing homes to conduct worship services and distribute communion from the reserved sacrament. Anyone interested in becoming a LEM can talk to the rector about the process, including training required. 

Lay Readers

Our lay readers serve at worship services by reading scripture and conducting the Prayers of the People. They also help the celebrant distribute communion during worship services.  At St. Paul’s, we encourage our young people to participate as lay readers during services, as we find they bring freshness and new meaning to the readings.

Greeters

When you attend a St. Paul’s worship service, you will be greeted by a parishioner who can help answer questions and direct you to church facilities. If you are new or just visiting, you will be welcomed and invited to join us for coffee and refreshments after the service.

Ushers

Ushers greet people in the Narthex, hand you a service bulletin and provide information about the location of the parish hall, restrooms, nursery and church school. They can also help anyone with disabilities find a comfortable place in the sanctuary, provide a large print Book of Common Prayer or a hearing aid device.