Liturgical Ministries
The liturgy is the “source and summit” of our faith. It is the source of our strength and nourishment, and it is the highlight of our participation in the Christian life. Christ the King offers many opportunities for parishioners to participate as lay ministers in the liturgy. Our prayer is that through these ministries the entire parish community may participate more actively and fully in the Mass.
“Our mission is the Lord’s and so is the strength for it. We turn to him in prayer that he will clasp us more firmly to himself and use our hands and wits to do the work that only he can do. Then our work itself becomes a prayer: a service that speaks to the Lord who works through us.” —Constitutions of the Congregation of Holy Cross (2.20)
Altar servers assist the priest and deacon at the altar with respect, reverence, and attention throughout the liturgy. This is an act of love that draws the server closer in faith to God. This ministry is open to youth (fifth grade and older) and adults who are active members in the parish. Training is provided for all new servers.
The Art and Environment Committee tends to the Church’s worship space throughout the year. Members assist in decorating the church and attending to plants as needed in keeping with the liturgical seasons. All volunteers are asked to help decorate during Christmas and Easter. Other time expectations vary with the liturgical season. This is wonderful ministry to our entire community and is a great opportunity for families!
Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) assist the priest and deacon in distributing the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass. Responsibilities also include cleaning the vessels and maintaining the sacristy after Mass. This ministry is open to all parishioners (high-school age and older) who are practicing and confirmed Catholics. Training is provided for all new EMHCs, and an annual workshop is required of all active ministers.
Parishioners also serve as EHMCs to the homebound, bringing the Body of Christ and Christian fellowship to those in their residences, local nursing homes, and hospitals due to illness or age. It is helpful to be an EMHC for regular Masses, though this is not required. Training is provided.
Diocesan Norms for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion | Practical Instructions and Procedures
Lectors proclaim the sacred Scripture readings and prayers of the faithful at Mass. These ministers have a particular role during the celebration of the Liturgy of the Word, and therefore all lectors are responsible for ensuring they are familiar with the Scripture readings they are proclaiming through study and practice. This ministry is open to all parishioners who are practicing Catholics. Training is provided for all new lectors, and an annual workshop is encouraged for all active ministers.
As emcees, experienced altar servers (ninth grade and older) perform special tasks at Sunday Mass and assist at major liturgies throughout the Church year (such as the Easter Triduum and Confirmation. Emcees also serve as leaders and mentors for younger altar servers in the parish. Training is provided for all new emcees.
Sacristans are responsible for assisting the priest and deacon in preparing for the liturgy. Preparation includes ensuring the proper quantities of bread and wine available for consecration and that all the vessels and linens required for the celebration of the liturgy are present and placed on the credence table. Sacristans should arrive early for setup and remain after Mass to wash, dry, and put away vessels in the sacristy.
Proper Care and Cleansing of Altar Linens and Sacred Vessels
Ushers are minsters of hospitality who share the love and welcome of Christ with all who enter our doors. The role of the ushers is to greet and assist parishioners and visitors before, during, and after weekend Masses. This ministry is open to faithful members of our community of all ages, and families are welcome to serve together. Specific responsibilities include welcoming and helping to seat those attending Mass, taking up and managing the collection, assisting the offertory gift bearers, passing out bulletins after Mass, and serving as examples of full and active participation throughout the liturgy.
