Ministries at St. Theresa

The primary role of the altar server is to assist the presider in the celebration of the Sunday Liturgy. This is done through specific practical actions such as carrying the cross in the opening procession and assisting at the altar.  Other ways that Altar Servers assist is by the example that they set for the Assembly.  Because they are sitting in full view of the assembly they lead by setting the example by their singing and responses to the various parts of the mass, not to mention their demeanor.  Other than serving at Masses, the Altar Servers have training meetings throughout the year for special liturgies.  We are not all work and no play however, since we have special outings as a group in appreciation for the service they provide.

The Spirituality of Hospitality

God asks the Church to be a fellowship of people sharing a common purpose and continually growing in faith.  Paul describes the Church as Christ’s “body” (Ephesians. 1:22).  People experience the presence of Jesus Christ in the world through the ministry of the Church.  When our Church serves the needs of people, members and non-members, it is an expression of the love of Jesus.  The Church is a servant body, created for service.
 
As an usher, you are a minister of hospitality and caring in the Church.  Every Christian believer is called to ministry, gifted by the Holy Spirit, and in baptism ordained for ministry.  When people come to church they are sometimes burdened, sad or discouraged.  Each person, member or newcomer, comes with the hope that the Sabbath will be an experience of uplift and inspiration, a time of renewal and celebration.  The skillful usher helps to make this a reality for those in attendance.  In Jesus, you have received God’s unconditional love, and, in Jesus, you are called to extend that same unconditional love to others.
 
The ministry of ushering is one of the most crucial because it is one of the most visible in the Church.  People will remember how they have been greeted.

St. Augustine has once been quoted as saying, ‘he or she who sings prays twice.’  More than a simple luxury, music in the liturgy has always been an integral part of the liturgy.