Liturgical Ministries

On August 12, 2001, Pope John Paul II spoke to over 2000 young people: “Dear Altar Servers, your commitment to the Altar is not only a duty, but also a great honor, a genuine holy service. In connection with this service, I share some reflections with you. Altar Server clothing is very special, recalling the garment that each puts on when welcoming Jesus Christ in the community at baptism. The Altar Server occupies a privileged place in liturgical celebration. In the liturgy you are much more than simple helpers of the parish priest. Above all, you are servers of Jesus Christ. Thus you are called to be young friends of Jesus. Be determined to go deeper and to cultivate this friendship with Him. You discover that in Jesus you have found a true friend for life.”

Youth Servers: To become an altar server is a special honor and a great privilege in the Catholic Church. If you are a 3rd through 12th grader who has made his or her First Holy Communion and are familiar with the basic order of the Mass, you should consider participating in this ministry. Altar servers assist the priest in the celebration of the liturgy during Mass. It’s not difficult, but training will be provided. Earn service hours and grow in your faith, too. Contact Dcn. Jim Spindler for more information. (863) 646-3556

Adult Servers: The Altar Servers for daily Mass and Funeral Masses function in several ministries on a rotating basis. These Stewards are trained as Sacristans, Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, and assist the Presider at the Altar during the Mass. There is a continuing need for additional Servers to participate in this capacity, particularly at the 9:00 AM daily Mass.

The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion is a CALLING from Jesus to serve his flock his body and most precious blood. We should exercise this commitment with humility, dignity and fidelity. Though we are not worthy, still we are chosen. Special training is required for all. Times and locations of Diocesan training sessions are announced in the Sunday Bulletin.

Please volunteer your time and talent. Your rewards will come from within – true joy and serenity. Call the Parish Office for more information. (863) 646-3556

Ministry guidelines: Individual must be 16 years old. Must be referred to the Diocese of Orlando by our Pastor. Must attend a Diocesan workshop. Must be a baptized Catholic, have received the sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation. Must be a Catholic in good standing (state of grace). Must dress appropriately.

Men’s options: dress suit with tie; long pants with dress shirt and tie; long pants with dress shirt and blazer; long pants with dress polo shirt and blazer. Women’s options: dress; knee-length skirt with blouse and jacket; knee-length skirt with blouse and sweater; pants suit. Not allowed: shorts, skirts above the knees, flip flops.

Lectors are called to proclaim the Word of God at Mass. As heralds of the word of God, prayerful consideration should be given to participation. The most effective Lectors carefully prepare by prayerfully studying the Scripture for which they have been scheduled. The Lector will gain perspective by studying the Scripture that precedes and follows the text selected for the Sunday reading. Lectors are scheduled to read at a particular Mass; however they should be prepared to read at any Mass if called upon. Workbooks and training sessions are provided by the Parish. Our annual meeting and training session is conducted the last Saturday of September each year. Call the Parish Office for more information. (863) 646-3556

Ministry guidelines: Should be at least 16 years of age. A member in good standing with the Church. Voice, attitude and physical bearing should reflect the dignity and sacredness of their calling.

Ministers of Hospitality play a special role as God’s people arrive for prayer. With an open door and a warm greeting, they set a welcoming tone for the Eucharistic celebration about to take place.

Responsibilities: Assist and extend the warm welcome of greeters as they help worshippers find seating. Provide for orderly and safe movement in the Church before, during and after the liturgy. Direct Eucharistic Ministers to disabled parishioners. Assist in any special situations such as unexpected illness. Collect the offerings of the faithful. Distribute the weekly bulletin as parishioners depart. Restore books and envelopes to their proper places in the sanctuary.

Principal Choir: The Principal Choir leads the singing at the 10 AM Mass on Sundays and presents at various events throughout the year. All who love to sing are welcome. Previous singing experience and ability to read music are helpful, though not required. Level of difficulty is beginner to intermediate, with most hymns sung in 3- or 4-part harmony. New singers and instrumentalists are always needed. For more information, please contact Jonathan Branton, Director of Music. (863) 646-3556. Rehearsals are Wednesdays from 7–8:30 PM in the church.

Coro Hispano: El Coro Hispano dirige el canto cada semana en la Misa en español de las 12:00 p.m. Todos los que disfrutan cantar y tocar música litúrgica en español son bienvenidos a unirse. Para más información, comuníquese con Jonathan Branton, Director de Música. (863) 646-3556

Cantor Program: In Catholic worship, the Cantor is the primary leader of congregational singing. He or she plays a deeply important role in the liturgy as both the proclaimer of the Psalm and leader of the Hymns and Acclamations. As such, a high caliber of musicianship is required. Admission to the cantor program is by audition with the Director of Music. Previous singing experience as well as an ability to read music and match pitch is required. Membership in an existing choir is recommended, but not required. For more information, please contact Jonathan Branton, Director of Music. (863) 646-3556

Sacristans care for the sacred vessels and vestments used in celebration of the Mass.

Responsibilities: Prepare the altar, credence table, sacramental elements, vessels and books needed for each Mass. Responsible for ensuring sufficient Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and Altar Servers are present for the Mass. Assist the celebrant in any way needed. Return the sacred vessels and articles for worship to their proper places after Mass. All sacristans are responsible for advising the head sacristan of any needed equipment or supplies.