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Eucharistic

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) are properly formed, instructed and commissioned lay persons who assist the priest in administering the sacrament of Holy Communion, the consecrated bread and wine. These ministers have received spiritual, theological, and practical preparation in order to aid in the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass and to the sick and homebound when ordinary ministers of Holy Communion are unavailable. In order for a person to be appointed as an EMHC, the following conditions must be met:

  • Be a Catholic living in harmony with the teachings of the Church and be properly disposed to receiving the Eucharist.
  • Be of sufficient age and maturity to perform the duties of an EMHC at Mass or to the sick and homebound.
  • Be chosen and appointed by the pastor.
  • Follow the established guidelines by the diocesan bishop.

If you feel you are called to distribute Holy Communion, please contact the parish office.

Ushers

A church usher ministers to people in a variety of practical ways. Duties include greeting people as they arrive for Mass, assisting people with special needs, aiding parishioners in finding a seat and collecting offerings. Ushers may be expected to :

  • Open doors for parishioners.
  • Assist individuals with special needs as appropriate to facilitate attending the Mass or parish functions.
  • Distribute bulletins before and after Mass.
  • Deliver and deposit collections at a designated financial institution following Mass.
  • Maintain an orderly environment and flow of people during Mass and parish functions.
  • Other duties as directed by parish administration.

Lectors

A lector is appointed to read the Word of God with clarity and conviction. Accordingly, he or she reads Sacred Scripture from the Lectionary (except the Gospel) during the Mass and other sacred celebrations. He or she may be called upon to recite the psalms between the readings in the absence of a choir or cantor. He or she presents the intentions for general intercessions. Lectors also make parish announcements as appropriate. Lectors should:

  • Be of sufficient age and maturity to perform the duties of a lector with appropriate reverence.
  • Receive proper spiritual, theological and practical preparation.
  • Observe proper decorum and attire when lecturing during Mass.

Please contact the parish office if you feel called to read the Word of God during Mass or other sacred celebrations.

Greeter

All are welcome at St. Mary's. Interested in greeting people before Mass with a smile and cheerful hello, or handing out the bulletin after Mass? Please contact the parish office if you'd like to be a greeter.

Altar Servers

The primary role of the altar server is to assist the priest in the celebration of the liturgy during Mass. Servers actively participate in the liturgy by carrying the cross, the processional candle(s), holding the Roman Missal for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar, carrying the incense and censer, presenting the bread, wine, and water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts or assist him when he receives the gifts from the people, wash the hands of the priest, assist the priest celebrant and deacon as necessary.  Alter servers:

  • May be male or female.
  • Should be of sufficient age and maturity to perform the duties of a server with the appropriate reverence.
  • Should have already received the Sacrament of First Holy Communion and should receive the Eucharist whenever they participate at Mass.
  • Should have received proper guidance, preparation and instruction regarding the Mass, instruments used in the Liturgy, and the various liturgical celebrations.
  • Observe proper decorum and attire when serving Mass.

Music Group

Music is among the many signs and symbols used by the Church to celebrate its faith. As sacred song united to words, it forms an integral part of the liturgy.

St. Mary's Choir has existed since the beginning of the church. Prior to Vatican II it was an all male choir. Within the last 50 years the choir has mixed voices of both male and female, young and old. The choir sings at the 10:30 AM Mass from late September until Pentecost. Choir practice is held Sundays at 9:30 AM in the choir loft.

If you are interested in becoming part of the choir (no experience necessary) or want to help with accompanying or song leading, please contact Beth Lakmann 608/637-7711

Front Door Ministry

Front Door Ministry provides one-time financial assistance to needy individuals. If you are in a tight spot and need a little help, or know someone who does, contact the parish office at 637-7711. Support for this ministry comes from donations and grants.