The Eucharist is "the source and summit of our lives as Christians" (Vatican II, Lumen Gentium #11). Therefore, the central act of our week is Sunday worship, and we are all called to "full and active participation" in the Eucharistic celebration. While the priest, acting in the person of Christ, leads our prayer and worship, there are other roles in the liturgy that are either proper to or can be performed by the laity. The following are some of the ways in which you can serve the liturgical celebration as a member of "the priesthood of the baptized."
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist The Church encourages frequent reception of Holy Communion as a source of strength and grace. Because of the great numbers at Mass and the scarcity of priests, it is necessary to enlist some of the faithful to distribute Holy Communion. Additionally, there is a great need for men and women to bring Communion to those who are in hospitals, nursing homes or confined to their homes. Volunteers are trained and assigned to Masses or private visits at the times they prefer. If you are able to assist with this valuable ministry, please contact our coordinator of Extraordinary Ministers, Joanna D'Attorre, or the coordinator of Communion Visitors Leon Coulon.
Lectors The Ministry of Lector offers a wonderful opportunity to proclaim God's Holy Word and make Jesus present within the worshipping assembly. At St. Monica's, lectors proclaim the daily and Sunday Mass readings, the Prayers of the Faithful. Is God calling you to help out as a Lector? Please contact our coordinator of Lectors Henry Theberge.
Altar Servers The number of young people who assist at the altar has been growing tremendously -- what a great difference they make in our worship! We welcome children in grade 4 and higher; for training, please contact our coordinator of Altar Servers Sharon Walsh.
Music Ministry St. Monica Parish is blessed to have two choirs in place - an adult choir that helps to lead worship at the 9:30 am Mass, and a children's choir that sings once a month (at present). These two choirs are a new addition to our parish worship, beginning only in March of 2006. Both choirs have grown tremendously, in both size and proficiency, in a relatively short amount of time, and they have helped to enrich our liturgies and the spiritual growth of our parish community. New members are always welcome and we encourage you to audition. If you are interested in being a part of this awesome and blessed Choir, please see Music Director Bernie Choiniere after Mass any Sunday.
Ushers & Greeters - The members of this ministry help to welcome parishioners as they arrive for Mass, distribute bulletins, help direct people, find them seats, as well as taking up the collections at Mass. If you can assist in this ministry, please contact the parish office.
Art & Environment Committee This committee is involved with the appropriate decoration of our worship space - both seasonal decorations and consultation regarding permanent changes. Persons interested may volunteer by contacting Fr. Patrick Armano at the parish offices.