Liturgy

The word “liturgy” comes from the Greek word leitourgia which means “work of/for the people.” As Catholics, we use the word “liturgy” to refer to the celebration of the Mass, the center of our faith life, and to other prayers of the Body of Christ for the world. As a church family, we participate in the liturgy through our prayer, song and spoken responses. Some of us are called to serve at Mass as ministers. Our liturgies at St. Joseph couldn’t be successful without our wonderful group of liturgical ministers sharing their time and talent with our parish community!

Do you feel called to participate more fully in the Mass as a liturgical minister? We always welcome new disciples to serve Christ and our parish in these vital ministries! All training is provided. All liturgical ministers age 18 and older must complete an Ethics & Integrity in Ministry Training.

Altar Servers assist the priest during weekday, Sunday Mass, Holy Day Mass, weddings, funerals, Stations of the Cross and Benediction. Altar servers need to be fourth grade or older and have made their First Communion.

Adult Altar Servers assist the priest during Funerals that occur when student altar servers are not available. Adult Altar Servers must have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. If married, the marriage must be recognized by the Catholic Church.

Lectors proclaim the Word of God clearly and understandably at Sunday Mass, Holy Day Mass, Funerals and Daily Mass. Lectors must be 16 years of age and have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. If married, the marriage needs to be recognized by the Catholic Church.

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion serve in many ways. They assist with the distribution of Holy Communion at Daily Mass, Sunday and Holy Days as well as funerals, they may bring communion to parishioners who are homebound or who reside in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Extraordinary Ministers must be 16 years of age and have received the Sacrament of Confirmation. If married, the marriage needs to be recognized by the Catholic Church.

Sacristans make sure the sacramental supplies (hosts, wine, chalices, linens, etc.) are in place before daily, Sunday and Holy Day Masses. There is also an opportunity to assist with washing and ironing linens; cleaning water fonts and refilling holy water, and dusting the main altar, the day chapel and the sacristy.

The Arts and Environment Committee is responsible for planning and decorating the church for all liturgical seasons, including but not limited to Lent, Christmas, Easter and Ordinary Time.

Please contact the Church Office by email at [email protected] or by phone at (979) 822-2721 if you would like to learn more about serving in any of the liturgical ministry positions listed above.