Liturgical ministries involve preparing the altar for liturgy and assisting the priests and deacons at Mass. Each specific area of liturgical service has its own set of specific requirements, but in general one must be fully initiated (i.e., Baptized, Confirmed and made your First Holy Communion), in good standing with the Church, registered and trained at Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral. If married, you must be married in the Church.
If you are interested in altar serving, becoming an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, a reader, a sacristan, an ambassador or assisting with church environment,
contact Susan Pietro.
Altar boys and girls, and adult servers assist the Priest and Deacon at Mass. Duties include preparing the sacred vessels, carrying the processional crucifix and candles and learning the duties of a Thurifer(incense). Bringing up the chalice, the water and wine cruets and washing the priest’s hands. Holding the Roman Missal for the priest and helping with the gifts at the offertory.
Adult servers and older servers that are at least 16 years old are encouraged to also become Extra-ordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. To be an adult server you need to be at least 16 years of age, fully initiated in the Church (i.e. Baptized, Confirmed and made your First Holy Communion), a registered parishioner and trained at Ss. Simon & Jude Cathedral. If married, you must be married in the Church and in good standing. Safe Environment Training certification is required yearly.
Membership in parish one year (at pastor’s discretion but encouraged from point of view of fidelity to the community one wishes to serve.) Men or women who are 16 years of age or older, acknowledged by peers and pastor to be an active Catholic in good standing with the Roman Catholic Church. Must have received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion and Confirmation in the Roman Catholic Church. All the faithful, especially those who will serve as extra-ordinary ministers of Holy Communion, should be properly catechized. Safe Environment Training certification is required yearly.
The Sacristan is responsible for setting up Mass by preparing the sacred vessels, linens, bread, wine, and sacred texts. They are ultimately responsible for the overall order within the Sacristy and the Sanctuary. To be a Sacristan you need to be at least 13 years of age, fully initiated in the Church (i.e. Baptized, Confirmed and Fist Holy Communion), registered, and trained at Ss. Simon & Jude Cathedral. If married, you must be married in the Church and in good standing. Two hours per week commitment and a yearly workshop is required. Safe Environment Training certification is required yearly.
At least 13 years old. Membership in parish one year. Men or women who are, acknowledged by peers and pastor to be an active Catholic in good standing with the Roman Catholic Church. Must have received the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Communion. There is a dress code for readers. Safe Environment Training certification is required yearly for adults.
Ambassadors of Hospitality are men and women from age 13 and over who are interested in further developing the hospitable and welcoming environment here at our Cathedral. Ambassadors are stationed at the doorways of the Cathedral at Sunday Mass to welcome people and assist them in any way possible. An ambassador should have a friendly and welcoming spirit and enjoy meeting and serving other people. They give general information about the life of the Cathedral Parish. This very exciting and versatile ministry encompasses many aspects of Cathedral life. Our Ambassadors of Hospitality are looking forward to representing the people of Ss. Simon & Jude Cathedral with a tremendous spirit of welcoming for all. This is a wonderful ministry to get to know others in our community, Safe Environment training is required yearly for adults.
Environment Ministers help to decorate the church throughout the year when they are available. The big days and seasons such as the beginning of Ordinary Time, Lent, Advent, Christmas, Easter, & Holy Days are when most of the help is needed. Depending on the number of people, 2-3 hours for each season. Other duties could include watering flowers, helping to hang or sew fabric as needed, changing the altar frontals from week to week, setting out flowers, and moving indoor trees. Safe Environment training is required yearly for adults.