Worship
Altar Guild provides a great opportunity to learn more about some of the rich traditions of our Episcopal heritage. Members of the Altar Guild make the church and chapel ready for worship, preparing the altar appropriately for services. Their responsibilities include putting out necessary liturgical items, linens and special hangings as the season requires; laying out vestments; keeping silver and brass polished; arranging greenery; and generally making all things bright and beautiful for our worship. Comprehensive training is provided. The time commitment is approximately three hours per month on Saturday mornings, before or after one of the Sunday services, and occasional time during the week for special services. A division of the Altar Guild, the Wedding Guild, works with the clergy and engaged couples to choreograph wedding ceremonies and ensure they unfold in a smooth and beautiful way.
Chalice Bearers, also known as Chalicists, are men and women of the parish who assist the priests by serving the chalice of wine at communion. They vest in cassock and surplice and sit in the sanctuary (the area by the altar) during the service. Chalice Bearers require appointment by the Rector, licensing by the Bishop for a two year term, and four to five hours per month.
Lay Readers participate actively in the worship service. Lectors come forward from the congregation and read scripture lessons at the lectern. Intercessors read the Prayers of the People. Lay Readers are instructed by the clergy and take turns participating in the Sunday morning services. Lay Readers may also serve at weekday morning or evening services.