Worship Ministry Opportunities

Acolytes serve in worship services by processing with the cross, assisting the clergy in preparing the Lord’s Table, and serving in any way needed for the ministry of the Word and Sacrament. Acolytes learn not only the mechanics of worship, but to graft in their hearts a devotion of belonging to God Himself. They serve on a rotating basis throughout the year, and depending on the type of service, we can use multiple people. We invite youth 5th grade and up who can carry the cross and/or torches to participate.

Altar Guild members prepare all things necessary for the celebration of the Eucharist or any of the other sacraments and offices of the church. The preparations are done in a manner so that all services may be conducted in decency, order, and beauty for the worship of God and His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Made up of volunteers of both genders, any age, and families, it is a ministry for those who feel led to serve at the Lord’s table. Volunteers serve on a rotation and should be able to work well with others, be detailed-oriented, willing to learn, and have a spirit that understands that the Altar Guild is carrying on ancient and holy traditions.

Flower Guild members adorn the altar for worship with flowers and greenery, and other areas of the church for special feasts such as Christmas and Easter. This work is done on Friday or Saturday in preparation for the Sunday services. They meet annually for a hands-on workshop and demonstrations, but previous experience is not needed to join the Flower Guild. Those new to arranging are paired with a more experienced arranger, and each pair serves five to six times each year.

At our 10:30 a.m. service two teams are available for intercessory prayer in the corners of the nave. Individuals serve on a three person team once each month. Those wanting to serve should have a desire to be used in prayer ministry and/or previous experience in prayer ministry.

Eucharistic Ministers serve in worship services with the priests and deacons, particularly during the celebration of communion. They lead the prayers of the people, serve the chalice (wine) during communion, read scripture, and other duties that may be needed. Lay Eucharist Ministers serve once or twice each month and undergo training and licensing before assuming the role.

The reading of the Old Testament and New Testament lessons from scripture is offered by Lectors, who each read once per quarter. Those who speak clearly and have a desire to thoughtfully present the readings are well-suited to this ministry. Lectors are given training on speaking, using the microphone, and in the mechanics of getting up to the lectern from the pews in the nave.

Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.” We love our children, and we believe they are a vital part of our worshipping community. Little Church is meant to form our children in our liturgical way of worship. We sing together, hear the Scriptures, profess the Apostle’s Creed, pray for each other, confess our sins to each other, and exchange the peace of the Lord. These common practices are meant to draw a child’s heart towards devotion of their Good Shepherd, Jesus. There are two types of volunteers who can serve for Little Church; the Homilist and the Liturgist. The Homilist bases their short lesson from the “Jesus Story Book Bible” with an emphasis on how Jesus’ love connects to us. The Liturgist pastorally leads the children into the wonder of worship through the various prayers and actions within our worship. We typically close Little Church with illustrative coloring sheets that communicate Scripture through art.

Our Music Ministry is comprised of five choral and instrumental ensembles for participants 1st grade through adult. The ensembles’ primary service is to lead music in our corporate worship while offering their musical talents to the Lord.

Ushers welcome worshippers to our services and help all feel at home by greeting them, handing out bulletins, and providing directions. They also pass the collection plates during the offertory and direct communicants to the altar for communion. Ushers serve on teams which rotate throughout the year.