Liturgical ministry scheduling is managed using Ministry Scheduler Pro (MSP), an online volunteer database and scheduling system. Through your MSP profile, you can update your availability, receive reminders of when you are scheduled, and request swaps if you become unavailable after being scheduled.
Contact Matthew Hall ([email protected]) for help with creating, accessing, or updating your Ministry Scheduler Pro profile.
The lector (reader) proclaims the Word of God in the sacred assembly, making God’s presence known. Lectors must be baptized. They are scheduled to read approximately every two weeks during the semester and as available on Holy Days and during academic breaks. Responsibilities include prayerful preparation and study of Scripture and diligent practice for the accurate and reverent proclamation of assigned readings. Ongoing participation in training once a semester is required, regardless of previous experience. For each training, you will be prepare a reading and must be open to receive constructive criticism.
Servers assist the clergy during Mass and other ceremonies such as Vespers or Exposition and Benediction. They hold the book, assist the deacons and priests at the preparation of the gifts and at the conclusion of the communion rite for the purification of the sacred vessels. They also ring the bells, carry the cross or candles in processions, assist with the censer (thurible) and incense boat.
For some Masses, there may only be one server who also functions as the sacristan. For other Masses and ceremonies when there is more to do, multiple servers may work together under the direction of a head server and/or master of ceremonies.
Ushers responsibilities include greeting parishioners, distributing hymnals and flyers, counting out the hosts at the Preparation of the Gifts, assisting with the collection, and directing the Communion procession—as well as taking a leadership role in the event of an emergency. Ushers should be friendly, outgoing, quick thinking, and unafraid to act on their own initiative.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are fully initiated Catholics—have received Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion—who assist the clergy in reverently distributing the Eucharist during Mass and occasionally at other times. Responsibilities include a commitment to prayer and regular participation in the sacramental life of the Church. Ongoing training and a diocesan commission are required for all Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, regardless of previous training or service in this ministry in other parishes or dioceses.