Role & Responsibilities of Altar Servers

Altar servers are integral to the celebration of the Mass, performing various tasks that support the priest and deacon. These responsibilities include:

Carrying the Cross: At the beginning and end of Mass, altar servers lead the procession by carrying the cross, symbolizing Christ entering and leaving the assembly.

Assisting with the Preparation of the Gifts: Servers present the bread, wine, and water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts, and assist in the washing of the priest's hands.

Handling the Incense and Censer: On special occasions, servers manage the incense, signifying the prayers of the faithful rising to heaven.

Ringing the Bells: During the consecration, servers ring the bells to draw the congregation's attention to the most sacred moment of the Mass, the transformation of the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ.

These tasks, while seemingly simple, are performed with great reverence and attention to detail, reflecting the sacredness of the liturgy.

Roles & Responsibilties of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

Extraordinary Ministers are called not only to minister the Body and Blood of Christ, but to have and maintain a strong faith, a sense of awe, and an inclusiveness of others as the foundation for their ministry.  The ministers accomplish this by strengthening their faith from within and sharing it with the faithful at communion time.  Extraordinary Ministers must be comfortable in establishing a relationship with each communicant in what is most likely the most intimate moment in the liturgy.

Role & Responsibilities of Readers

Readers have several key responsibilities that contribute to the liturgical celebration:

Proclaiming the Scripture Readings: The primary duty of a reader is to read the designated passages from the Old Testament, New Testament (except for the Gospel, which is typically read by a deacon or priest), and the Responsorial Psalm during the Liturgy of the Word. This proclamation is a sacred act, as it makes present the living Word of God to the assembly.

Preparation: Effective proclamation requires thorough preparation. Readers should practice the readings beforehand, understanding the context and meaning of the texts. This preparation involves prayer, study, and reflection, allowing the lector to internalize the message and convey it with authenticity.

Reverence and Dignity: Readers are called to approach their ministry with reverence and dignity. This includes dressing appropriately for their role and maintaining a prayerful disposition while serving during the Mass. The way a reader carries themselves can enhance the congregation's reception of the Word.

Clear and Audible Reading: It is essential for lectors to read the Scriptures clearly and audibly so that the assembly can hear and understand the Word of God. Proper pronunciation, pacing, and emphasis on key passages help convey the message effectively.

Understanding the Liturgical Season: Readers should be aware of the liturgical season and the specific readings assigned for each celebration. This awareness helps to connect the themes of the liturgical season with the chosen Scripture passages, enriching the congregation's understanding.

Announcing the Intentions: In some liturgical celebrations, readers may also announce the intentions for the Universal Prayer (also known as the Prayer of the Faithful) after the readings. This role further integrates the reader into the prayer life of the community.

Faithful to the Text: Readers are to faithfully proclaim the Word of God as it appears in the approved liturgical texts, avoiding personal additions, omissions, or improvisations. This fidelity ensures that the Word is communicated as intended by the Church.

Participation in the Liturgical Assembly: Readers should be fully participating members of the liturgical assembly. They should be actively engaged in the prayers and responses during Mass, embodying the communal nature of worship.

Humility and Service: Like all liturgical ministers, lectors serve with humility, recognizing that they are instruments through whom God’s Word is communicated to the people. 

This service is a profound way to contribute to the spiritual growth of the faith community.