St. Mary's Catholic Church

LITURGY

The role of the Liturgy & Spirituality Committee is to assess the needs that pertain to the development of the spiritual life of the community. Spirituality is the spiritual input that nurtures the spiritual life of the Christian, and includes various forms of prayer and liturgy. As the Committee carries out the Bishop’s guidelines on liturgy, and follows guidelines set down by the Archdiocese and the parish, they hope to provide liturgy that is prayerful and meaningful. The Committee is composed of the pastor, and all liturgical ministry chairpersons. These are men and women who witness to the faith by proclaiming God’s word at liturgical assemblies. Special training is necessary to perform this ministry well.

Eucharistic Ministers

They are chosen men, women and youth (junior and senior), who are entrusted with administering the Eucharist, and taking communion to the sick. A special Orientation Program is conducted for all new Eucharistic Ministers.

Servers

The Servers’ Program is open to any St. Mary’s boy or girl from 6^th grad through 12^th grade. Permission of parents or guardian is requested, and faithful commitment to their responsibility is expected.

Ushers

They are the official hosts of the parish community. Their crucial function is welcoming and hosting at all weekend masses, and other liturgical events. This ministry is open to men, women, and youth (junior and seniors).

Music Ministry

Greeters

These men and women have the important task of greeting all persons as they enter the church at all weekend masses. This ministry is open to men, women, and youth (junior and seniors).

Art / Environment

Through the constant vigilance of these people, the church and other areas (sacristies and sanctuary) are carefully cleaned and kept in order.

Pastoral Council Rep

This person attends Pastoral Council meetings and informs this group of any important events or changes discussed or proposed by the Liturgy & Spirituality Committee.

(Please contact any of these persons if you have questions or concerns. They will be happy to help in any way they can.)

Liturgy Planning

The Liturgy Planning Committee meets on a regular basis. The Liturgy chairperson and men, women, and youth of the parish have the function of planning the parish Sunday and Holy Day liturgies, and other liturgical celebrations throughout the year.

Music Ministry

Adult Choir

It is composed of men, women, and high school youth of the parish. The choir sings once or twice a month at weekend liturgies, and other special events (excluding summer months).

Cantors & Organists

Cantors (leaders of song) are men and women who help the congregation sing, and add to the beauty and prayerfulness of the liturgy.

Organists work with the cantors in leading the congregation in song. By practice and dedication, their music makes liturgy prayerful and meaningful.

Folk Group

It is composed of musicians and singers who lead the parish in sacred song. This group ministers once or twice a month at parish weekend masses and other special events.

Youth Choir

Junior High and High School Youth are invited to be a part of this group. The Choir sings for special events in the parish.

Handbell Choir

Is St. Mary’s newest musical group. All men and women, young and old, are invited to become a part of the Bell Ringers. The “Bells of St. Mary’s” ring at special liturgies and seasons of the church year.

Evangelism Committee Vocations- The Evangelization Committee is a group of St. Mary's parishioners who come together to help plan and reach out to those around us. We reach out to the inactive/alienated Catholics and un-churched to come share our Catholic faith. Pamphlets, books, and other items are available to assist parishioners to reach out to others.