Worship Ministries

 

There are many hands at work to make our liturgical services spiritual and serene.   Serving God on the weekends allows you to be an active participant in the liturgy and continue to strengthen your faith.

 

Ushers

Ushers are the first people visitors to the church will meet. They greet and welcome people to all of the services and to special services throughout the year. They give our visitors their first impressions of St John's and have an opportunity to connect with visitors and help visitors connect with us. Ushers distribute the service bulletins, assist the handicapped, record attendance, taking up the offering, directing parishioners for the Eucharist, and tidying up the church after the service.  An usher has a true love for our parish and a desire to promote an atmosphere of reverence and worship in the house of God.

 

Altar Guild

The Altar guild ministers serve God by preparing the Lord’s table for each of the liturgical services.  At St John's, the Altar Guild is an enthusiastic group of women and men who prepare the altar and the Eucharistic vessels and linens for the weekly services. Duties are assigned according to which service one prefers to attend. Members consider it an honor to serve in the sacristy and to care for the “holy things” used in the sacraments. There is no rigorous training involved, just a love of flowers, fine linens, quiet solitude and reverence.

 

Acolytes

The word acolyte is derived from the Greek word akolouthos, meaning companion, attendant, or helper.  Acolytes are those who assist in all the ceremonial aspects of the service. They can assist in worship by carrying the processional cross, lighting candles, holding the Gospel book, and other tasks as seen fit by our clergy.  Becoming an acolyte is a way for almost anyone to become involved in the worship.  Traditionally at St John's, our youth serve as acolytes, but men and women of almost any age can serve. 

 

Lectors

Lectors bring God's Word to life through reading of the Old and New Testament lessons from the Bible at each of the services.  If you have a desire to engage the Scriptures in a special way and if you would like a special way of participating in Sunday services, serving as a Lector is a ministry for you.

 

Lay Eucharistic Ministers

The Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMS) assist at the Eucharist by serving the Chalice and occasionally administering the Host, as well as take communion from the altar to those unable to attend church.  At St John's, the LEMs also lead the congregation in the Prayers of the People. If you are interested in serving God as a LEM, please speak to one of the clergy.