|
|
|
|
St. Mark's maintains a number of worship related ministries. These include- AcolytesYoung men and women aged ten and older are eligible. After a period of training, they serve at the altar at all services and in many capacities. (Dean Henry and Howard Marsh)
Altar GuildA dedicated group serving by the grace of God and approval of the Rector, responsible to the Rector for the care of the altar furnishings and Sanctuary, including Eucharistic vessels, silver, linens, and vestments, as well as floral decoration appropriate to the church year. The Altar Guild prepares for all regular and special services. Their duties require a knowledge of church protocol and symbolism and a devotion to their work. The Altar Guild depends financially on gifts and the generosity of the congregation. Connie Harrison and Phyllis Middaugh are Co-Directors. The group is open to both women and men by invitation of the Directors and the Rector. If you wish to be a part of this ministry, please speak with Fr. Henley, Connie Harrison, or Phyllis Middaugh.
Bell ChoirSt. mark's invites any interested ringers to join the bell choir. The ability to read music is not necessary. Adults, youth, and children participate in the ministry, which provides music periodically to our services. Rehearsals follow the 10:15 service and generally last about 30 minutes. Contact Rachel Rubottom for more information. Come ring with us!
ChoirOur Adult Choir is a fun-loving and talented group that regularly leads and supports the congregation in the musical portions of the worship service. We also reach out to the community in the following ways. On alternate months, along with the clergy or Lay Eucharistic Ministers, we conduct worship services at the University Village and Park Place care facilities. During the Christmas season, we visit the home-bound and various assisted living facilities. We rehearse on Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.
Greeters/OblationistsAssigned Greeters arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the 8:00 a.m. or 10:15 a.m. services in order to hand out bulletins and greet members and newcomers. As Oblationists, they proceed down the center aisle, following the offertory, carrying the flagon of wine and ciborium of wafers. After the offering has been presented, the altar person will then receive the wine and wafers, bowing. Oblationists return the bow and may then return to their seats. This begins the ritual of sacrament. If any member of St. Mark's is interested in becoming a Greeter-Oblationist, please call the church office (962-3089) and leave your name and number. (Martha Lakis)
Lay Eucharistic MinistersAfter a brief training period, and approval by the Vestry, Lay Eucharistic Ministers are licensed to administer the chalice or paten during communion. Some receive a special license to carry reserve sacrament to hospitals or homes for administration to shut-ins. Licenses must be renewed every two years. Contact Lloyd Graham if you are interested in serving.
LectorsTo "proclaim God's Word" is indeed a ministry in itself. This is a ministry that over 30 of our members participate in as Lectors for St. Mark's. As our Lectors read the lessons, they are enriching the worship service by conveying the message that is found in the Holy Scripture to each member present. If you are interested in the Ministry of serving as a Lector, contact Lloyd Graham.
Newcomer MinistrySt. Mark's is blessed with a location central to the greater north Tampa community. Our location lends itself to a steady flow of visitors and newcomers. By virtue of this, St. Mark's has a wonderful opportunity to be a witness of the Good News of our Lord to our neighbors and community. The ministry consists of greeting visitors each Sunday morning, conducting orientation meetings, and tracking new members through the Confirmation and Reception process. Generally, the newcomer's ministry begins with the ritual of a simple handshake followed with "Hello, my name is..." If you are called to the Newcomer's ministry, please get in touch with Jeff Jenkins.
UshersUshers serve on a rotating basis at all services and each usher is expected to give special attention to visitors and newcomers. They assist in the orderly procession to the altar for the Eucharist, count the number attending each service, are responsible for taking up the collection from the congregation during the services, and make sure that bulletins are picked up from pews after the service. If you would like to volunteer to be an usher, contact Bob Middaugh.
VergersVergers are in charge of church protocol. They should know what each liturgical participant should be doing. They are appointed by Fr. Henley and have to go through a training period. Contact Lloyd Graham, Head Verger.
|
Send site additions and corrections to the
Content Coordinator Sue Ann Jones
|
