Acolytes
The word acolyte means “follower” or “attendant.” An acolyte assists the priest and other ministers during the service to help make things run smoothly. An acolyte can assist in worship by carrying a processional cross, lighting candles, holding the Gospel book, holding candles or “torches”, assisting a deacon or priest set up and clean up at the altar, handing the offering plates to ushers, and many other tasks as seen fit by the priest. Acolytes are usually youth but may be an adult. If interested in participating in this ministry, please contact Charles Pringle.
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild prepares the altar before and after all services. Guild members care for all linens, silver, wood, and brass. The Altar Guild is made up of teams that rotate weekly on a regular basis. The Altar Guild arranges the flowers we enjoy on the altar during each service. The Altar Guild is also responsible for adorning the sanctuary during the holiday seasons. We encourage anyone interested in this ministry to contact Willa Dickens.
Ushers
Ushers are the smiling faces that greet you every Sunday morning as we gather for worship. To usher is to be a leader, a guide, a helper and a doorkeeper. Ushers do more than pass out bulletins: they help with the orderly running of the service by guiding parishioners to the altar rail for Communion, counting how many parishioners attend each service, collecting the offering and helping anyone who needs assistance. This is a vital ministry, one of hospitality and supporting our worship. The Usher Coordinator is Rebekah Heden, and you may contact her if you are interested in serving.
Lectors
Lectors are non-ordained volunteers who participate in a ministry of service to the congregation. Lectors rise out of the congregation to move to the lectern to read the lessons from the Bible during the service.
Lay Eucharistic Ministers
A Lay Eucharist Minister, or “Chalice Bearer,” is a person licensed by the bishop to administer the consecrated wine of the eucharist. At St. Andrew’s Eucharistic ministers usually vest in an alb. Generally, they volunteer to serve and are trained by the the Rector or our Deacon. The Eucharistic ministers at St. Andrew’s do not take their positions lightly and consider their ministry a special responsibility.
Music
Music takes a place of great importance in the life of St. Andrew’s. Congregational singing, the cornerstone of music in our worship, is supported robust organ accompaniment and by joyful singing from various levels of skill, ages, and dedication. For more information, see the list of our musical groups here.