Serving in the Liturgy

Worship is something we do together as the people of God. Each Sunday, lay worship ministers help our priests lead, support, and offer welcome as our congregation celebrates the Holy Eucharist.

Volunteers serve up to two times per month, or as often as your schedule allows. Schedules for eucharist assistants, acolytes, lectors, and ushers are sent by email to those who are serving in the next month. (If you are not receiving your schedule, please contact the office.)

If you are interested in learning more about one of our Lay Ministry roles, please contact the St. Paul's office for more information on scheduling and training. There are several ways to serve, and many of these roles are great for young adults and high schoolers!

Ushers

Ushers are the welcoming face of St. Paul’s and should enjoy welcoming people and helping with practical details. They greet worshipers, distribute bulletins, assist with seating, count the congregation, guide the offertory, and help people come forward for Communion. They also help with the practical details that keep our worship running smoothly. You can read our Ushering Instructions for a complete description of this important role.

Acolytes/Crucifers

Acolytes/Crucifers assist the celebrant throughout the liturgy. They carry the processional cross, light and extinguish the altar candles, assist with the offertory and preparation of the altar, ring the bells during the Consecration, and assist with the sacred vessels following Communion. Acolytes must be able to process while carrying a heavy cross, as well as be comfortable moving through the liturgy with focus and reverence.

Lectors

Lectors proclaim the appointed Scripture readings during the Liturgy of the Word and, at designated services, lead the congregation in the Psalm. Preparation is encouraged so that Scripture may be proclaimed clearly, thoughtfully, and with reverence.

Eucharistic Ministers

Eucharistic Ministers assist the celebrant in the distribution of the Holy Eucharist, serving the consecrated wine from the chalice with reverence, care, and a willingness to serve others quietly. They also help ensure that those unable to come forward can receive Communion in their pew.

Choir/Music Ministry

Choir/Music Ministry enriches our worship through Choir and instrumental music, helping our congregation pray, reflect, and rejoice together. Click here for a full summary of this uplifting ministry or contact Paul Blanchard here for more information.

Altar Guild

The Altar Guild is a ministry of prayer, preparation, and care. Working behind the scenes, members prepare our church for worship and care for the sacred items used in the Holy Eucharist. Through this work, they help create a welcoming and reverent space where our congregation can gather in worship.

Altar Guild members prepare the church before services and carefully put things away afterward. This includes arranging the altar, preparing the bread and wine for Communion, caring for linens, tending candles, arranging altar flowers, and making special preparations for holy days and celebrations throughout the church year.

Altar Guild members typically prepare the church on Fridays for Sunday worship. Members may also take linens home to launder, press, and fold as part of their service. The ministry works on a rotating schedule, so members share these responsibilities throughout the month.

This ministry is wonderful for anyone who feels called to a quiet and reverent form of service. It offers a special opportunity to slow down, enjoy the process of preparing our sacred space, and spend intentional time in reflection and with God. No prior experience is necessary—new members are taught everything they need to know.

Interested in learning more or serving with the Altar Guild? Contact Shelley Rust at 707-953-5824 or here. If you're interested in donating flowers in the memory of a loved one, please complete the Altar Flower Donation Request form.

St. Paul's Episcopal Church | Healdsburg