At the center of the St. Matthew’s community life is worship. As a liturgical church in the Episcopal tradition and as a part of the broader Anglican Communion of churches, our worship and music cover a broad spectrum.
Christians of all ages participate as acolytes, readers, ushers, chalice bearers, greeters, Altar Guild members, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, singers, and instrumentalists. We hold periodic training sessions for these ministries and welcome long-time and new parishioners to deepen their spiritual and community connection with service to one of these ministries. Contact the church office to learn more about joining any of these ministries.
Acolytes: Children and adults assist the clergy and other parishioners in the conduct of public worship. Acolytes carry crosses, torches and banners, help with the alms and generally assist clergy and other liturgical ministers as needed. Our acolytes develop poise, self assurance and confidence in appearing before large groups of people. But best of all, participants learn that everyone has something to offer to the worship of God. This ministry is open to children 5th grade and older as well as adults.
Altar Guild: The Altar Guild prepares the church for all services as directed by the clergy. Responsibilities include flower arranging, preparing and cleansing the communion sets, laundering and ironing the linens, polishing brass and silver, laying out and care of vestments, filling candles and other tasks that may be needed for special services.
Service on the Guild provides the privilege of serving God in his sacristy and sanctuary. The personal satisfaction of this privilege cannot be described or measured. Members serve two weeks a quarter and serve on a team. Training is provided. This is often a “behind the scenes” ministry that has a huge impact in our common worship life. Regular meetings are held after the 10:15 service on the second Sunday of the Month.
Flower Guild: The Flower Guild is dedicated to creating visual enhancement to our magnificent building by arrangements of plants and flowers during special holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Everyone who enjoys being around flowers is welcome to volunteer.
Greeters: Greeters assist the Clergy in welcoming people to services, keeping a particular eye out for newcomers. Greeters assist newcomers in filling out Welcome cards, escort them to Coffee Hour after services and help current parishioners and newcomers to make connections with one another.
Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs) and Lay Readers: LEMS and Lay Readers are an integral part of worship at St. Matthew’s. They assist with the distribution of communion and read the lessons at the various services. Chalice bearers assist the clergy in the administration of the Sacrament of Holy Communion. LEMS are required to be Confirmed, while being a Lay Reader is open to everyone.
Music Ministry: The music program at St. Matthews has grown substantially over the past three years. The choirs welcome interested singers of all ages to participate and raise their voices together in worship to glorify God. You can learn more about the extensive music program by visiting the Music Ministries section of the website. Contact Philip Keil, Director of Music, to learn more about this exciting ministry.
Ushers: Ushers are often the first people you meet when you come to St. Matthew’s on Sunday. They welcome you when you arrive, hand out worship bulletins, help acquaint newcomers to the sanctuary and property, assist with special needs such as receiving gluten free, accessibility at the time of communion, and assisted hearing devices. They also collect the offering, present the offering at the altar and assist people during communion.