Liturgy

Liturgy Committee
Liturgy is the "work of a people" who gather to celebrate the great mystery of our salvation. The committee draws on the liturgical seasons of the Church to fashion celebrations of faith consistent with the liturgical norms of the Catholic Church.

R.C.I.A.
The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults is the process for those who seek full membership in the Church. Primarily for the unbaptized, the rites involve a process of preparation and initiation into the Christian life through Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. The RCIA may also be of benefit to the baptized, either those from other faith traditions or Catholics.

C.I.C.C.A.
The Catechumenate for children is the process for children, not baptized as infants, who have reached the age of reason, to become members of the church. Through the sacraments of initiation, baptism, confirmation and Eucharist, the children celebrate their conversion.

Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist the presider at the altar. Girls and boys who are at least 9 years of age and have made their First Communion are eligible to serve.

Arts and Environment
In order to facilitate the enhancement of the beauty of our liturgical celebrations, this group plans and creates appropriate decorations and fresh flower arrangements for the church, chapel, entrances and common areas.

Liturgy of the Word for Children
For children grade 1-3. Children gather with the adults for the introductory rites, the presider calls forth the children, shares with them and dismisses them to attend their own Liturgy of the Word. The children return for the preparation of the gifts. For children ages 3-K. Children gather with the adults for the introductory rites, the presider calls forth the children, shares with them and dismisses them to attend their own Liturgy of the Word. The children return for the preparation of the gifts.

Communion Breadmakers
Those who involve themselves in breadmaking, either monthly or
bimonthly, assure that an adequate supply of bread is available at all times.

Eucharistic Ministers
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist are confirmed adults, approved by the Pastor, who serve others in a threefold way: assisting the distribution of Communion during the Eucharist; taking Communion to those unable to be at the Eucharist; conducting a Communion Service in the absence of a priest.

Lectors
Each week Lectors present the Word of God. They are trained in oral interpretation for proper proclamation of the Word, then given an instructive commentary on how best to proclaim the Word.

Liturgical Planning
Four planning groups meet monthly to share ideas concerning the spiritual needs of the community. The general thrust of this planning is writing a theme, opening commentary and prayers of the faithful.

Music
The Music ministry provides opportunities for parishioners to spiritually enrich the liturgy through music. For those who wish to contribute musically, the following opportunities are available:
Family Choir: Membership open to all, practices weekly (Thursdays). Informal vocal training, mixed repertoire and plenty of fun! You'll love it! Come by yourself or bring a spouse, son or daughter, or friend. Commitment: 10 hours monthly
Folk Group: Membership of 9th grade and above by audition. Weekly practice (Mondays) and liturgy, N.C. beach retreat; commitment a must but the rewards are great. Good musical, social and spiritual mix! Commitment: 14 hours monthly
Seasonal Choir: Organized to celebrate feasts of Christmas and Holy Week/Easter. Short term commitment to a more sophisticated liturgical repertoire. Start-up for practices will be announced in the bulletin. Commitment: 22 hours each feast
Cantors, Dancers and Instrumentalists: These are special ministries for those gifted with individual talent and perhaps extra training.

Nursery
A professionally staffed nursery is available at both 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday liturgies Children ages 6 months to 3 years are welcome.

Ushers/Ministers of Hospitality
As ministers of hospitality, their role is to greet people and assist in seating them. They collect the offering of the people and assist those who bring forth the gifts of bread and wine.