Lectors
“The Mass consists in some sense of two parts, namely the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist, these being so closely interconnected that they form but one single act of worship. For in the Mass is spread the table both of God’s Word and of the Body of Christ, and from it the faithful are to be instructed and refreshed” (General Instruction of the Roman Missal, # 71). Through the proclamation of scripture God speaks to each of us in different ways. As St. Paul said, “the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).
The role of the lector is to proclaim the Word of God at Mass. Lectors are people of faith who understand the importance of Sunday worship. Prayer and the study of scripture is a part of their lives so that they may proclaim that Word with clarity and understanding and allow the Word to act upon the people listening to that Word.
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life. At the Last Supper Jesus instituted the Eucharist as the memorial of his death and Resurrection and commanded his apostles to “do this in remembrance of me”. Through the Eucharist we participate in the Paschal Mystery, Christ’s Death and Resurrection.
The role of the Eucharistic or Extraordinary Minister is to assist the smooth distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ. They do this only at the time of Holy Communion, and during the rest of the Mass they participate throughout as a member of God’s priestly people. Extraordinary Ministers can also assist in bringing Holy Communion to the sick or homebound.
Altar Servers
The role of an Altar Server is to assist the presiding priest at Mass, under the direction of the Master of Ceremonies (MC). Children can become Altar Servers the year after their First Communion. Becoming an Altar Server is a good way for a child to learn more about the Mass and the love of the Lord, as well as the importance of offering one’s gifts to God and serving one another in love.
Sacristan
The Sacristan plays an important liturgical role preparing both the sacristy and the sanctuary areas for the celebration of the daily and weekend liturgies. The role of the sacristan is to prepare and make ready the vessels and linens needed for Mass and clean up after. This includes vessels, linens, and liturgical books.
Greeters
The role of a greeter is to offer hospitality to all those who come to worship receiving every visitor as one would receive Christ. Hospitality shows respect for visitors and demonstrates the humility of the host.
Greeters show hospitality by welcoming people to worship, tending to their needs, helping them find a place, gather their gifts during the collection and finding people from the assembly to offer our gifts to God. Greeters are people who by nature want to help. They have a deep faith in Christ, a love for the Mass and a desire to help the faithful worship when they arrive at church.