Masses are said in our three churches throughout the week. Below are some of the roles parishioners take on to help the clergy at Mass. Could you offer your services in some way? If so, the Parish Office would love to hear from you.
Readers
The readers' ministry is to proclaim the Word of God from Sacred Scripture, and by their careful preparation and delivery, they help the congregation to understand it and take it into their hearts.
[Christ] is present in his word, since it is he himself who speaks when the holy scriptures are read. (Sacrosanctum Concilium, 7) |
Welcomers
Welcomers greet our Sunday Mass-goers at the door, answer any questions and aim to make everyone feel welcome and comfortable in our community, whether they are newcomers, visitors, or regular worshippers here.
You welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as you might have welcomed Christ Jesus himself. (Galatians 4:14) |
Altar Servers
We have an enthusiastic team of adults, young people and children from Year 4 upwards who serve at the altar for Sunday and weekday Masses.
Many of the servers meet to learn, practise, pray and have fun together on the 1st Saturday of the month, 10.30am-11.30am in the parish rooms at St Richard’s. They may become members of the Guild of St Stephen, the altar servers’ guild, and earn their GSS medals. To serve is to reign. (Motto of the Guild of St Stephen) |
Choirs
Our three choirs' ministry is to lead the congregation in the sung worship of God at Mass and other services. They combine their love of God and love of music and would warmly welcome new members, whatever their musical knowledge or experience.
Choir practices are held at: - Our Lady of the Assumption, before Sunday Mass & monthly on Friday evenings. - St Peter's, Monday, 7pm - St Richard's, Thursday, 7pm Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord. (Psalm 94:1) |
Children’s Liturgy leaders
In Children’s Liturgy, children celebrate the Liturgy of the Word at their own level, with a team of adults who help them listen to the Gospel, pray, sing and take part in activities that explore the readings of the day in a fun and engaging way.
Children’s Liturgy is available on most Sundays in term time during the Sunday Masses at Our Lady of the Assumption and St Peter’s and at the 10am Mass at St Richard’s. Let the little children come to me, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. (Matthew 19:14) |
Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion
Extraordinary ministers assist the clergy in distributing the most Sacred Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ to their brothers and sisters in Christ, whether at Mass, to the housebound at home or to those in hospital.
This ministry is usually undertaken on invitation from the Parish Priest. This is my body which will be given for you; do this as a memorial of me. (Luke 22:19) |
Sacristans
Devoted sacristans prepare our churches for every Mass, lighting candles, laying out vestments carefully putting into place everything from altar breads and wine to the priest's Missal. They often work unseen but they are vital to the life of our churches.
I have chosen and consecrated this house that my name may be there for ever. (2 Chronicles 7:16) |
Flower Arrangers
Each of our churches has it own dedicated team of flower arrangers, who decorate the churches throughout the year, making our celebrations more beautiful and dignified, thanks to their skill, knowledge of plants and flower, and their eye for beauty.
We praise You, Lord, for Sister Earth, who sustains us with her fruits, coloured flowers, and herbs. (St Francis of Assisi) |