Liturgical Ministries
St. Paul's offers a wide variety of opportunities for the faithful to participate in the worship of God. The list below gives many examples of activities that you might want to consider. For more information or to get involved, contact the parish house at (716) 855-0900 or e-mail us. Training is provided for all liturgical ministries.
WORSHIP COMMITTEE
The purpose of this committee is to assist the clergy in developing worship, to provide feedback, to assist in liturgical education, and to support the use of the Cathedral as a liturgical center for the Diocese and our Bishop.
USHERS
The ushers play a critical role in our liturgies. They are often the first people newcomers meet. Ushers also receive and present the offerings, assist people coming to the altar for Holy Communion, and generally help people feel welcome.
LECTORS
Lectors read the lessons at our liturgies. This includes Sunday mornings as well as the weekday Eucharists.
ACOLYTES
The acolytes light the candles at the altar, carry the cross or torches in processions, assist the deacon in preparing the altar, ring the sanctus bells, and receive the offerings and communion elements. Our most advanced acolytes learn to be thurifers--those responsible for incense at the high holy days. At St. Paul's, children and adults serve as acolytes.
CHALICE BEARERS
Chalice Bearers are trained by the Cathedral clergy and licensed by the Bishop to serve the chalice during celebrations of the Holy Eucharist.
EUCHARISTIC VISITORS
These volunteers are trained and licensed by the Bishop to bring the Sacrament of Holy Communion to the homebound immediately following the Eucharist. This vital ministry is treasured by our homebound members.
INTERCESSORS
Intercessors lead the Prayers of the People at the Eucharist.
NEWCOMER GREETERS
The newcomer greeters attempt to identify and greet visitors at all of our liturgies. They welcome visitors to the Cathedral, and working with the clergy, introduce them to our members, ministries, and activities.
ALTAR GUILD
The altar guild carries out the behind-the-scenes activities necessary for all liturgies. They iron the linens, polish the thurible and eucharistic vessels, and set out the vestments for the services. Given the number of liturgical services at the Cathedral each week, they are incredibly important for our worship life together.
HEALING MINISTERS
These laypersons assist the clergy every Sunday at the 9:00 and 11:15 am Eucharists. After communicating, parishioners may go to the Richmond Chapel for prayers of healing and the annointing with holy oil.
EVENSONG OFFICIANTS
During the Choral Season, the Choirs of St. Paul's sing choral evensong every Sunday. Select laypeople, at the clergy's discretion, are given the opportunity to officiate occasionally.
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