As a sacramental church, liturgy is “sensual”. Through sight, sound and smell, we are drawn deeper into the Paschal Mystery.
“God does not need liturgy; people do, and people have only their own arts and styles of expression with which to celebrate” (Environment and Art in Catholic Worship 4). Do you have a green thumb? Are you good with design? Do you have an artistic eye? The Holy Mother Church prides itself on creating a worship environment that allows us to express our praise and thanksgiving to God. How can you “steward” your gifts in creating the worship environment at Saint Raphael and Saint Patrick parishes?
The ministry of the altar server represents a long liturgical tradition in the Church. “Servers enhance the quality of the liturgical celebration for the whole gathered assembly by taking part in processions and by ensuring that all items required for the celebration are available at the appropriate moments” i.e. holding the sacred books, incenser, water pitcher and towel (Introduction to the Order of Mass 22). Parish members from middle school age through to senior citizen (male or female) are welcome to serve in this crucial ministry. Are you being called to steward your time through service in the Saint Raphael or Saint Patrick sanctuaries? If you are interested in serving as an Altar Server please call Jim Mendralla for more information at 582-7646.
“Since the Eucharistic Celebration is the Paschal Banquet, it is desirable that in keeping the Lord’s command, his Body and Blood should be received as spiritual food by the faithful who are properly disposed.” Extraordinary ministers of communion “serve Christ present in the gathered assembly by ministering his Body and Blood to their brothers and sisters”. (Introduction to the Order of Mass 21) Do you desire to serve as an extraordinary minister of communion, bringing the Body and Blood of Christ to your sisters and brothers gathered for worship, “The Body of Christ” present in the assembly? How can you steward your time through this very important ministry?
"When I was a stranger, you welcomed me." (Mt. 25:35). Jesus Christ teaches that whenever we welcome one of the least of our sisters and brothers, we welcome Christ Himself. We seek to see the face of Christ in one another. With special vigilance, we seek out and welcome new members to the parish family or visitors.
In a hospitable parish, parishioners and guests feel they belong and are appreciated. When parishioners experience a warm and sincere welcome, they in turn become open to give themselves to others. As God loves us, we are called to one another.
Recippients of such love from others, are attracted to follow this example .When others welcome us, we are open to welcoming others.
To be involved in the hospitality ministry at our weekend liturgies, contact Christine Radecki via email at c.radecki@sbcglobal.net.
“In proclaiming the word of God, lectors exercise their responsibility in the liturgical celebration. God speaks to the faithful through them, and the effectiveness of their proclamation of God’s word depends significantly on their conviction, preparation, and delivery”. (Introduction to the Order of Mass 14). Do you have a gift for story-telling? Are you comfortable speaking in front of a group of people? Do you desire to channel your gift in proclaiming God’s word at Sunday liturgy? How can you steward your time and talent through the ministry of the Lector?
For more information, please contact Carmen Hernandez via email at chernzsr@gmail.com.
This dedicated group of parishioners has a personal vested interest in the liturgical life of the parish. Each member serves in two important roles. First, they are a “working body” – each member involved in a liturgical ministry serving the Sunday assembly, and/or acting in roles as leaders/coordinators for the different liturgical ministries. Second, they are a “consulting/evaluating” body – acting as a sounding board for the Director of Music and Liturgy and the Pastoral Staff, evaluating all liturgies throughout the year, and offering suggestions to continually improve our prayer experience. Do you love the liturgy at Saint Raphael and Saint Patrick parishes? Would you be interested in taking a more “hands on” approach to parish prayer? Prayerfully consider how your participation on the Liturgy Committee can help to shape the liturgical life of the Saint Raphael and Saint Patrick parishes in a positive way.
“The work of a sacristan is essential before, after and between Masses in the parishes. Care for the condition of the whole space where liturgy is celebrated, as well as for the vestments, vessels, candles, bread and wine for each celebration of the Eucharist…can relieve the presider and other ministers in the crucial moments before and after the liturgy”. (Liturgy with Style and Grace, Huck, Liturgy Training Publications) Are you a person of detail and organization? Do you appreciate tending to “set up” responsibilities before a major celebration? How can you offer your gifts to the “behind the scenes” needs in preparation for weekly liturgy here at Saint Raphael and Saint Patrick parishes?