SERVE
Volunteer During Mass
Lectors
“Magnify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together.” In Sacred Scripture, the community of believers find nourishment and strength for their daily life. This is not as human word, but it’s the Word of God! God speaks to us in His word and Christ speaks to us in the Gospel. The readings are to be listened to reverently by everyone as an important part of the Liturgy.
Lectors are privileged to present this Word to the assembly. The mission of the lectors entails a great responsibility when they serve as a bridge between the Scriptures and the community. The lectors are committed to rigid preparation and discipline that enables the Scripture to become living Word. Liturgical and Biblical formation is presented at least annually to all those interested in becoming lectors and to those as a refresher and reminder of the seriousness of their mission.
If you’re interested in becoming a Lector, please contact us!
Altar Servers
Assisting the presiding priest on the altar is a wonderful way for youth to learn about and participate in the Mass. Servers are at least 10 years old and can be male or female. All servers receive appropriate training and are scheduled for the various Masses. There are also opportunities to serve during Masses on non-routine days.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us.
Ushers
The role of the usher/greeter is one of offering a friendly presence to those coming to Mass, of providing leadership during emergencies and performing such tasks as taking up the collection, presenting the gifts, and assisting parishioners during Communion—always conscious of Christ’s words “For I was…a stranger and you welcomed me,” (Matthew 25:35)
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us.
Eucharistic Ministers
EM’s (commonly referred to as Eucharistic Ministers) must be 21 years old and in full communion with the Catholic church. These volunteers receive training, as per direction from the Diocese of Arlington, to assist the presiding priest with offering Eucharist to parishioners of St. Francis of Assisi. Once trained, the EM’s check in with their Mass “lead EM” fifteen minutes prior to the beginning of Mass to receive instructions to stand at a specific station. EM’s may also volunteer to bring Eucharist to sick and homebound parishioners.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us.
Sacristans
At St. Francis, there are men and women who do the quiet work of preparing for and assisting at Mass. Sacristans care for altar linens, order wine and hosts, arrange liturgical books for the altar, prepare the altar, light candles, order seasonal flowers, and lots of small unnoticed things. Our celebrations are wonderfully enhanced by their ministry.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us.