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.    

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.

Servers assist the clergy during Mass and other ceremonies. 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.

Sacristans are paid student interns who assist the Associate Director and Director of campus ministry with maintaining the sacristy. They function as head servers (helping to coordinate and train other servers), are responsible for the setup and cleanup before and after Mass and other sacred rites, and assist with other sacristy-related tasks as needed and according to availability (e.g., annual polishing).

If you are interested in this paid internship, please contact Matthew Hall ([email protected]).