Ministry of the Laity at Grace Episcopal Church

Worship

Acolytes: Assist the priest at the altar; lead processional and recessional with the cross (Crucifer); incense (Thurifer); candles (Torch bearers); Book of Gospels; and banners; responsible for lighting and extinguishing the altar candles before and after worship.

Altar Guild: Assists worship by caring for the sacramentals used during the worship of God including the sacred vessels, linens, vestments, banners, candles, books, etc. Cleans and sets up the altar area prior to each worship service and cleans the vessels and puts everything away following worship. Decorates the church appropriately for each liturgical season and service.

Chalice Bearer: Assists the priest with the distribution of Communion by serving the chalice. Must be licensed by the Bishop.

Eucharistic Visitor: Assists the priest with the distribution of communion to the sick and shut-in immediately following the Sunday celebration of the Eucharist. Must be licensed by the Bishop.

Flowers: God created Adam and Eve and placed them in a garden. Jesus went to the garden to pray. God's altar is adorned with flowers. A sign up list is on the parish bulletin board. Additional flowers are used for special feast days such as Christmas and Easter.

Courtyard Gardens: A special place for reflection. These gardens require regular tending including seasonal plantings and watering.

Greeters: Welcomes worshipers to Grace Church. Invites visitors to fill out a visitor card and sign the guest registry.

Intercessory Prayer Team: Commits to offering to God, through daily prayer, the requests and thanksgivings of the Grace Church family.

Lay Worship Leader: In the absence of a priest, may lead worship. Must be licensed by the Bishop.
Lector: Reads the lessons during the worship services. Must be licensed by the Bishop.

Musicians: Contributes to the worship of God through music by playing/singing during preludes, postludes, hymns or at other appropriate times. These are determined in consultation with the Rector and organist.
Usher: Welcomes the congregation as they enter the church; assists the worshipers by distributing bulletins, flyers and other appropriate information; locating Hymnals and other worship materials; provides assistance to anyone coming to communion who may require it; receives the tithes and offerings and presents them at the altar.

Worship Intercessor: Leads the "Prayers of the People" from the congregation during worship.
Christian Education
Bible Studies are offered seasonally as desired. You may participate or lead in consultation with the rector.

Christian Education classes offered for the young, teens, and mature members on Sunday mornings. You may be a student or a teacher.

Confirmation preparation is offered on Saturdays or by appointment.