Liturgical Ministers

The worship of the church is often referred to as the Liturgy.  ‘Liturgy’ comes from a Greek word which originally meant a public duty or a service to the state undertaken by a citizen.  It is sometimes said that liturgy is the work of the people, and our worship is the work of God’s people.  As such, all participate in the liturgy.  The priest presides at the celebration fo the Eucharist and most services, however the participation of all people is necessary.

Our church uses non-ordained persons for many roles in the service.  These roles are:

• Greeter – welcomes people as they enter the church
• Usher – distributes service bulletins as people enter the church, collects the offering, carries the bread and wine to the priest at the offeratory
• Lector – reads scripture lessons and leads the Prayers of the People
• Crucifer – carries the cross during the processions
• Server or Acolyte – assists the priest at the altar
• Eucharistic Minister – administers consecrated elements at congregational celebrations of the Holy Eucharist (sometimes referred to as the Chalice Bearer)
• Eucharistic Visitor – takes elements for distribution to shut-ins immediately following a celebration of the Holy Eucharist
• Worship Leader – regularly leads public worship such as Morning or Evening Prayer

St. Philip’s provides training for all positions to any who are interested. Information on the duties and responsibilities of a liturgical minister is provided in the customary for the position. Click here to view the St. Philip's customaries or choose "Resources" from menu above (under "Liturgical Ministries"). The Resources page also lists books and references which are helpful for liturgical ministers.

Eucharistic Ministers, Eucharistic Visitors and Worship Leaders require a license by the Bishop but the other positions do not.  The license is valid for two years.  Continuing education is required for licensed positions; the continuing education requirement met by attendance at one event during the two-year license period.

If you are interested in serving in any of these roles, or if you are interested in learning more about the positions, please use the form below to indicate your interest or to ask questions.  Be sure to include your contact information.