To properly serve our Parish community at each and every Mass, it takes the dedication and devotion of parishioners who selflessly offer their time and talents in the roles of Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers pf Holy Communion, Ushers/Greeters and Altar Servers. Additionally, our Music Ministry and Media Ministry are instrumental to this mission.
Choosing to volunteer in any of these roles is a blessing and greatly appreciated. The Parish longs to add to its weekday and weekend numbers of actively engaged liturgical ministers of all types.
The first step in the volunteering process is to contact Rob Weierman at 520-577-8780, extension 124. He will answer questions you may have and discuss necessary subsequent steps.
Individuals with an openness to the wisdom of the Holy Spirit, a desire to study and discern the meaning of the Holy Scriptures and who possess vocal agility to bring alive the power and beauty of God's word are encouraged to respond to this call to become a Lector. Opportunities exist at either weekend or daily Masses.
There is no greater or more sacred lay ministry than that of an Eucharistic Minister - more precisely an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion...someone called upon to assist the priest in the distribution of the Body of Christ during Mass. At St. Thomas these are parishioners who are duly instituted acolytes or even other faithful who have been enlightened and trained for this purpose.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion receive sufficient spiritual, theological and practical preparation to fulfill their roles with knowledge and reverence.
Ushers meet and greet, bid parishioners and visitors a warm welcome and a sincere farewell (including handing out weekly Parish bulletins) at each weekend Mass. During Masses they offer seating assistance, distribute water on an extremely hot day, manage the collection process as well as maintain order and flow during distribution of the Holy Eucharist.
"Being altar server is call to prayer and mission...Serving at the altar is a privileged way to draw closer to Jesus...
The closer you are to the altar, the more you will remember to speak with Jesus in daily prayer; the more you will be nourished by the word and the body of the Lord, the better able you will be to go out to others, bringing them the gift that you have received, giving in turn with enthusiasm the joy you have received."
Pope Francis, August, 2015
To be an altar server is a special honor and a great privilege in the Catholic Church. The search and call for new and dedicated servers for all Mass times is ongoing.
This commitment is for one to two Masses per month. Thorough training and shadowing of a current altar server will be provided.
For additional information, contact Deacon Ed Sheffer at 520-577-8780, extension 111.