Liturgical Ministry Invitation
So you’re interested in Liturgical Ministry…
One of the best things that came out of Vatican II was the realization that, as all of us make up the Church, the Body of Christ, it is all of our responsibility to actively participate in the Mass. Below are some of the ways you can do just that. Besides a one-time training and a quick course in VIRTUS (See the end for more information), there is no extra obligation outside of Mass. If you are interested or have any questions, I invite you to contact me. I hope many of you feel a call to actively serve our ever-growing Eucharistic community boldly serving others through God’s love!
God Bless,
Michelle Perrier
Music and Choral Director, Coordinator of Liturgy
(507) 288-5528 Ext. 112 | choirdirector@rescathroch.org
Altar Servers (Grade 3 and above)
Altar Servers assist Father Schuster and Deacon Rob during the Mass, like carrying the crucifix and preparing the altar for Communion. This ministry is a great way to learn more about the structure of Mass and how we actively participate during it.
This ministry is great for our young members to get involved. That being said, altar serving is for all ages, including adults. (My brother, David, is 31 and loves to serve every Sunday!)
Lectors (Those who have received Communion and Confirmation)
Lectors proclaim the Word of God at Mass for us to hear and reflect upon. This is a great ministry for those who want to delve deeper into the readings. Lectors are given workbooks with reflections to use as they contemplate and practice the readings during the week.
Anyone who has received Confirmation and Communion can become a lector. If you are interested but are younger and/or have not received Confirmation, let me know. Based on each individual situation, I can waive the age limit.
Greeters (Grade 6 and above)
Greeters have the important task of welcoming all people to celebrate the Mass as a community of faith, parishioners and non-parishioners alike. They greet everyone at the doors, hand them a bulletin with the information happening at our parish, and assist anyone with questions about our church. Being a Greeter is a great way to get to know and serve your parish community. (Consider your family doing this together!)
Anyone in 6th Grade and above can become a Greeter. If you are under 16, we will make sure an adult is present as the other Greeter if you have questions and to ensure a safe environment.
Ushers (Grade 6 and above)
While Altar Servers assist the clergy, Ushers assist the congregation. They help parishioners find seats, assist in case of an emergency, and make sure everyone is able to receive Holy Communion. Being an usher is a great way to get to know and serve your parish community. (Consider your family doing this together!)
Anyone in 6th Grade and above can become an Usher. If you are under 16, we will make sure an adult is present as the other Usher if you have questions and to ensure a safe environment.
Eucharistic Ministers (Those who have received Communion and Confirmation)
Eucharistic Ministers distribute Holy Communion to those assembled at Mass. For those who have not received the sacrament of First Communion, Eucharistic Ministers bestow a blessing upon them. This ministry is a great way to reflect upon Christ’s infinite love and to offer it to your parish community.
Anyone who has received Confirmation and Communion can become a Eucharistic Minister.
Sacristan (21 years or older)
The Sacristan prepares the sanctuary for our time of worship. Becoming a sacristan is a great way to understand more fully the different objects in our church and to learn what goes on behind the scenes.
Anyone ages 21 and older can become a Sacristan.
Music Ministry (All ages)
Being part of the Music Ministry is a great way to grow deeper in your parish community, understand the structure of Mass, discuss your faith using music, and worshipping Christ through song. Whether you’re an instrumentalist, singer, or you just like music, this is the ministry for you!
Music ministry meets once a week (except during the summer months) to learn the music and understand the meaning of what we proclaim. It is not necessary to be able to read music or have perfect pitch. All are welcome!
Training Session for Your Ministry and VIRTUS
Ministry training sessions will be scheduled after any weekend Mass. Please contact me to find a time that works best for you!
For ALL ministries, those 18 and older are required to go through VIRTUS training. It’s online and takes about 30-40 minutes to complete. This program teaches us what to do if we see a potentially harmful situation arise. We thank you for your support as we continue to stay vigilant and maintain a safe environment for all people at our parish.