PARISH MINISTRIES

The Ministers of the Eucharist assist the celebrant with the distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass. These Ministers also assist the priests by bringing Holy Communion to the homebound.

By making it possible for laypersons to serve as Ministers of Communion, the Church is providing as opportunity for the laity to take a more active role in the Ministry to others. A brief training session is necessary.

A Parishioner who is homebound for an extended period of time and wishes to receive Holy Communion should contact the Rectory.

If you are interested in serving in this Ministry, contact Msgr. Martin at the Parish Office, at 896-6400.

2. MINISTRY OF THE WORD (LECTORS):

It is through the Lectors that God's Living Word continues to be proclaimed to His people. To be an active Lector, it takes some preparations.

Our Lectors prepare for their proclamation of the Word in both a practical and spiritual manner. During the week, prior to Sunday Mass, they familiarize themselves with the scripture selections by reading them several times both silently and aloud. Their next step is to ensure an understanding of each selection so that they can effectively communicate the meaning.

We thank the Lectors for their work and invite anyone who is interested in becoming a Lector to contact the Rectory: 896-6400 or Marcia Pullar: 838- 1350.

3. MUSIC MINISTRY:

Our Music program, directed by Martha Sturomski is constantly growing and developing. We have three fine choirs, as well as cantors, who enhance our Masses.

Adult Choir: a growing group, meets on Wednesday at 7:15 pm. They sing at the 11:15 Mass or else other times on Sunday Masses.

Children's Choir: they meet on Wednesdays at 6 pm. They sing on the First Sunday of every month and for special feasts.

Handbell Choir: This choir meets on Tuesdays at 7 pm and perform for Easter, Christmas, and special feasts.

In addition, we have special "Folk Group" that performs for the monthly Family Mass. A Contemporary Choir is also being formed to sing at the 8:30 am Mass on Sunday.

From time to time, we enjoy special groups, e.g., the Scout Band an the John Jay High School String Quartet.

"WHEN YOU SING ONCE , YOU PRAY TWICE"

4. ALTAR SERVERS:

At the present time, St. Mary's Altar Servers consist of over 40 dedicated boys and girls. The Server plays an important role in helping the priest celebrate the Mass. He/she is the celebrant right-hand helper.

To become an Altar Server, he/she has to be at least in fourth grade, willing to serve scheduled Masses, and be available, on occasion, to serve weddings, funerals, and other ceremonies.

New Altar Servers will be acepted in September and installed and St. Mary's Altar Servers following their training period.