Ministries of St. Matthew's

At St. Matthew's we believe that worship is the joyous responsibility of the whole community and not just the clergy. Many of our parishioners participate in the leadership of our services each week. God calls us all to diverse forms of ministry and we use our gifts in many different ways.

We invite you to consider volunteering in any of the following areas of ministry:

Prayers of the People
Members offer to God the prayers of the people on behalf of the parish on a Sunday morning.

Readers
Members participate in our worship by reading the Holy Scriptures. Twice a year a workshop is offered to assist people in their reading.

Ushers
Ushers are parishioners who enjoy meeting people. They hand out the bulletins and take up the collection. This is a good way of meeting members and newcomers to the church.

Greeters
Greeting is an important ministry of our church as we want all people to feel welcomed and at home. Greeters make sure that visitors or new members are introduced and invited to share in our hospitality after the service in the Fireside Room.

Servers
Members assist the clergy during the services by performing a variety of duties such as candle and chalice bearer or crucifer. Head Servers are responsible for teaching the other attendants as well as reading the Gospel during the service.

Lay Readers
Lay Readers are licensed by the Bishop to assist the Clergy and occasionally lead in worship, preach and visit the sick or shut-ins of the parish.

Chancel Choir
The Choir practices Thursday evenings from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m., preparing for regular Sunday services and special occasions such as Christmas and Easter. Fellowship generated at practices is enhanced by social events such as potluck suppers. If you can carry a tune, come and join this happy group.

Hand Bell Choir
St. Matthew's is very fortunate to have a lovely set of handbells, which have a beautiful and unique sound and are played on special occasions. Members range in age from early teens to seniors. Practices are held Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Altar Guild
Parishioners are appointed by the Rector to prepare the altar and the sanctuary for Sunday worship and special occasions throughout the year. Flowers on the altar are donated by parishioners for special occasions such as anniversaries, weddings, or in memory of a loved one.