Acolytes
Acolytes make a big difference to the worship experience. In the hectic lives we all lead, it is sometimes difficult leaving everyday worries behind in order to feel closer to God. Hopefully seeing the robes, the crosses, the torches, and the contemplative attitude of the acolytes at St. Gregory’s has helped some of you make the transition to a meaningful church service. We currently have 20 acolytes active in our parish; girls, boys, women, and men are all in the mix. Brad Hankins and Kelly Black manage the scheduling and, with help from David Stooksbury and Karen Hankins, also manage the training. We always need acolytes. Remember, acolytes get to scarf down any leftover communion bread, so please talk to Brad or Kelly about joining the acolyte roster.
Altar Guild
Altar Guild is responsible for setting up the altar for all services, including Rhythms of Grace, funerals, and weddings. Two or three members are assigned to cover each month. Most everyone is scheduled to serve 3 or 4 months during the year in addition to Holy Week and Christmas. One member now takes care of washing and ironing linens and all Wednesday services in lieu of covering Sunday services. Altar Guild also is responsible for upkeep on appointments (cleaning & polishing). New members receive training from the co-chairs and are always assigned with someone who has much experience. For the most part, setting up the altar can be done at a time that fits your schedule, and we have few required meetings. Some find the time spent setting up for a service to be a time of spiritual awareness and solitude – a time to be in God’s house alone. Contact Julia Marlowe to learn more about joining Altar Guild.
Bread Ministry
Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you.
For many years, members of St. Gregory the Great have baked the bread used during Holy Eucharist. Currently, Lane Norton and Brad Hankins share the baking responsibilities. It is a great joy. We are using a recipe Brad developed, though others have been used previously. Neither of the bakers has submitted any kind of budget to the church, preferring to make it a gift. If another baker or two would like to join in this satisfying ministry, they would be welcomed. Contact Brad Hankins, if you are interested.
Flower Guild
Members of the Flower Guild use their talents to beautify the church for worship and special occasions. They make a conscious effort to use natural flowers, branches, and found objects to make their works of art. If you are interested in learning more about the Flower Guild or offering the gifts of your garden, contact Nancy Carter or Lane Norton.
Music
Music is everywhere at St. Gregory’s! Our choir, led by choir director Joseph Napoli and organist/music director Jonathan Klein, is a beautiful and powerful asset to worship. The Band of Believers is a group of instrumentalists that plays for the Christmas pageant service. Voices of Blessing sings for people who are ill or unable to attend church, providing the gift of music as an element of healing. Music is a vital presence in Sunday School, Children’s Chapel, Vacation Bible School, and even our annual Valentine’s Dinner fundraiser for the Youth. In addition, St. Gregory’s regularly hosts community music groups, serving as both a practice and performance space. If you’re interested in becoming a part of the music of St. Gregory’s, contact Joseph Napoli or Jonathan Klein.