Ministries

The Altar Guild members do their work behind the scenes, preparing for the Eucharist and our other worship services. They lovingly care for the sacred vessels and the linens. They ready the chancel (the area enclosed by the altar rail) for worship, and later they take care of the clean up. They tidy up the pews so that the hymnals and prayer books are where they belong. In short, they ensure that we have all that we need for our worship. And, if you’ve ever wondered who makes the changes in color that are part of our liturgical tradition, wonder no more.

It may not be possible to overrate the important role of the greeters/ushers. You’ve heard the adage, “First impressions count,” and that is as true for a parish as it is anywhere else. A warm greeting, assistance navigating our books, collecting the offering, and directing people to Communion are among the responsibilities.

One of the most wonderful aspects of our Episcopal liturgy is that the readings from the Hebrew Scriptures and New Testament are offered by a lay person. Another is that the Prayers of the People are offered by a lay person and, at St. John’s, that person stands among the people (at most services this person is also a LEM – more on that next).

The Celebration of the Eucharist, though presided over by a priest, is not exclusively the priest’s. Lay members participate in the administration of Communion as chalice bearers. At St. John’s, our custom is that the LEMs are also readers, leading the Psalm and the Prayers of the People.

Music is an essential element of the Episcopal liturgy. The Choir leads congregational singing during our weekly service and offers a special anthem. The choir typically rehearses at 9am on Sunday mornings. If you are not a singer but do have other musical talent, please speak to Nancy Conrad, the Music Minister, about offering your gifts to augment the choir.

This team is responsible for counting and documenting the weekly offerings and making the bank deposit after the Sunday service.