We offer many different ways to get involved with Mass through the different Liturgical Ministries. The Mass is the ultimate form of prayer for us as Catholics, and ministering at the Masses is a great way to serve God and the community. Training for these ministries are usually at the beginning of the semester, but if you are interested in any of these ministries, contact Fr. Bart Hutcherson at frbart@uacatholic.org.
Lectors
Lectors proclaim the scriptures during the Liturgy of the Word. They also prepare for the Mass by studying the readings together during the week prior to Mass. This ministry is recommended if you have a clear speaking voice and a love for the Word of God. For more information on Lectoring, see the USCCB’s Resource for Lectors.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priests (who are the ordinary ministers of Holy Communion) in the distribution of Holy Communion during Mass. This ministry is recommended if you have a love and reverence for the Eucharist.
Altar Servers
Altar Servers (or acolytes) assist the priest throughout the Mass including the procession, holding the Sacramentary during specific prayers, and assisting the preparation of the gifts. This ministry is recommended if you have a love and reverence for the Liturgy. For more information, see the USCCB’s Guidelines for Altar Servers.
Sacristans
Sacristans (or Mass Coordinators) organize and prepare the liturgical books, vessels, and anything else that is needed for the Mass. They are also responsible for the procession of the gifts and offertory collection.
For more information on any of these ministries, see the USCCB’s General Instruction of the Roman Missal: Duties and Ministries in the Mass.
