LAY MINISTRIES
We have all been blessed with gifts, at St Mary’s we encourage all parishioners to share their gifts, to serve each other, to help build a community of faith and to serve God.
If you would like to help with any of the Ministries below, please contact the Parish Office at [email protected], or complete a Parish Census and Commitment Form (available at the back of the church) and give it to Father Peter, place it on the collection plate at Mass, or drop it in the letter box at the Parish Office.
Acolytes
Our parish has instituted Acolytes who assist our Parish Priest at Mass, prepare all items required for Mass, (sacristy items), organise collections/wardens and distribute Holy Communion. They serve on a rotating (July-June) yearly roster. Training as an Acolyte by the Sydney Archdiocese is mandatory before commencing on the roster.
Altar Linen
Washing and ironing of altar linen, etc is done each week on a rotating (December-November) yearly roster.
Altar servers
Boys and girls can assist during Mass once they have received their First Holy Communion. Our head Acolyte organises and runs the training for new Altar Servers which is carried out when required.
This is a great way for our young parishioners to be involved in the mass.
Catechists
Our volunteer catechists teach the children in our local public school about Christ. More Catechists are needed. Please contact the Parish Office at [email protected] if you would like to volunteer as a catechist.
Children’s Liturgy
On Children’s Liturgy Sundays, children are taken to the parish hall to hear the Gospel and discuss it at their own level, they then get an opportunity to do some activities which reinforce the message of the Gospel.
We would like to recommence this activity, subject to parent involvement. Please contact the Parish Office at [email protected] if you are interested in volunteering at the Children’s Liturgy.
Choir
We are blessed with a dedicated group of parishioners who make up our parish choir, but more volunteers are most welcome. Singing at Mass on a monthly basis and at special Masses, Christmas Carols, etc. requires dedication and commitment and a willingness to attend practice sessions.
Church cleaning
Vacuuming, dusting, removing rubbish, cleaning the church, bathroom facilities is usually done on Friday or Saturday on a rotating (December-November) yearly roster.
Commentators
Commentators welcome the congregation at each Mass, announce the Readings, Responsorial Psalm and Prayers of the Faithful. They are scheduled on a rotating (July-June) yearly roster.
Counting
Counting of monies collected is done on a rotating (December-November) yearly roster.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Ministers distribute Holy Communion during Mass. Training is provided before commencing on the rotating (July-June) yearly roster Ministers may also distribute Holy Communion to the sick in their homes and nursing homes
Fundraising
Fundraising activities include cake stalls on Mother’s Day, Easter chocolate sales, a Christmas stall, raffles, a bi-annual Fete, etc.
Greeters
Greeters welcome other parishioners and visitors at Sunday Masses, distribute parish bulletin, assist others as required on a rotating (July-June) yearly roster.
Hospitality
On the first Sunday of each month, tea coffee cakes, biscuits are served after each Mass. Parishioners are invited to bring a plate of cakes, biscuits, etc. to share.
Music Ministry
Can you play an instrument or sing? New musicians are urgently needed to assist at Sunday Masses on a rotating yearly roster.
Powerpoint and Live Streaming
Operating the computer can be done by parishioners who are able to use Powerpoint. Masses are occasionally live streamed on Youtube. Parishioners can be trained to use the live streaming system.
Proclaimers of the Word
Proclaim the Word of God at weekend Masses on a rotating (July-June) yearly roster.
Social activities
Social activities include bus trips, outings, harbour cruise, tv audiences, Christmas in July lunch, Christmas Carols, Parish Feast Day, etc. Please check Parish Events, and the Bulletins regularly for updates.
St Vincent De Paul Society
New helpers are always needed and welcome to join the St Vincent De Paul Society, or assist at the Piety Stall.
If you are interested in any of the ministries please contact the Parish Office at [email protected], or send us your details via New To Parish page.
