“Out of love, place yourselves at one another’s service.” Galatians 5:13
Altar servers assist the clergy (Bishop, Priest, and Deacon) in the Mass and other liturgical celebrations/Rites as needed. They receive training, on-going formation sessions and must have received their First Communion.
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“I am the Living Bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
John 6:51
The Document, “Lumen Gentium,” tells us that the Eucharist is the source and summit of Christian Life. The Eucharist challenges us to become what we receive--to become more like Christ. This challenge continues in that we, in turn, are to serve others.
Since the 1970s when we were permitted to receive the Blood of Christ as well as the Body of Christ, the need for additional ministers became apparent. While ordained priests and deacons are Ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, trained and commissioned lay people can serve as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and fulfill a vital need in serving Holy Communion to the faithful. They truly are the hands and feet of Jesus in that they can serve Holy Communion at Mass as well as take Holy Communion to those who are unable to attend Mass -- the sick at home, in hospitals and other health care facilities.
“I will proclaim your name to my brothers and sisters: in the midst of the assembly I will praise you.” Psalm 22:23
Proclaimers of the Word, otherwise known as Lectors or Readers, function partially as the subdeacon did previously. Lectors are assigned to read the word of God in the liturgical assembly. Accordingly, he/she reads the lesson from Sacred Scripture, except the Gospel, in the Mass and in other sacred celebrations; recites the psalms between the readings in the absence of the psalmist, and presents the intentions for general intercessions when the deacon or cantor is absent. If necessary, he/she also assumes the responsibility of instructing any of the faithful called upon to read the Scriptures in any liturgical celebration.
“Look about and see, they are gathering and coming to you.” Isaiah 49:18
Ushers greet, assist parishioners and visitors and if needed, escort them to seats - especially those with special needs. They take up collection and assist with orderly communion service. They distribute the parish bulletin after Mass and may escort the presider of the Mass to put the offertory collection in the vault.