Liturgy

Our life as Catholic Christians is truly a life-long journey. Moreover, it is not a solitary journey. From beginning to end, the Catholic Christian journeys in Christ, both marking and celebrating this journey in sacramental encounters. Because our Sacraments are the heart of our life in Christ, sufficient formation for them is necessary. We also strive to celebrate the Sacraments in meaningful communal celebrations. Following are the ways individuals are formed for the Sacraments and how they are celebrated in our parish.

Sacraments

Baptism: Sacramental pre-baptism class must be completed before baptism can be scheduled. Classes are held at the Queen of Apostles rectory monthly. Contact Joan Berner (323-1163) to pre-register for the class.

Marriage: The couple must follow Diocesan pre-marriage guidelines which include a six-month period of preparation. Please contact Joan Berner (323-1163) to start the process.

1st Reconciliation, 1st Eucharist, and Confirmation: Preparation classes are held in the fall and spring (2nd graders Reconciliation & Eucharist; 11th graders Confirmation). Information is included in the bulletin.

Vocations: If interested in pursuing a vocation of consecrated life, ordained priesthood or deaconate contact Fr. Dan Kirby at Queen of Apostles parish office (323-2916).

Sacrament of the Sick: Please call Queen of Apostles parish office (323-2916) if a family member desires to celebrate the anointing of the sick or if a person is hospitalized.

Ministeries

Lector: The ministry of the lector is to proclaim the scriptures to the assembly gathered each week, allowing all to hear the Word that will shape their lives. Formation and trainig are provided for new lectors and materials are available to help them prepare for this ministry. Lectors are scheduled on a rotating basis. Please call Dee Harrison (347-6631) or send us an email (carterlakechurch@juno.com) if you are interested in this ministry.

Extraordinary Eucharistic Minister: Eucharistic Ministers distribute communion during Mass, to the care facilities and to our homebound members. A strong personal faith is core to one who serves in this ministry. Formation and training are provided for new Eucharistic Ministers several times throughout the year. Ministers are scheduled on a rotating basis. Parishioners interested in ministering as Eucharistic ministers should contact Dee Harrison (347-6631).

Ministers of Hospitality:Whenever people gather together, there is a need for a host to make everyone feel welcome. This is the ministry of our greeters and ushers. The greeters arrive early to greet parishioners and guests as they arrive. The ushers may also greet people as they help them find a seat (if necessary) to celebrate the liturgy. Ushers take up the collection if no one is assigned. They are also trained on storm alert procedures.

Altar Servers: This ministry is available to youth of our parish in 4th through eighth grades. Formation sessions are held to prepare persons for this ministry in the fall. Contact Sharon Allen (347-6631) if you are interested in this ministry.

Music Ministry: These ministers assist at our parish liturgies as cantors, accompanists, members of ensemble groups, and instrumentalists. New youth and adult ministers are welcome at any time. Contact Monica Bentzinger (347-6631).

Liturgy Committee Duties:

• To plan and provide activities and opportunities to deepen the faith life and spiritual growth of the parish community, through prayer experiences and liturgical celebrations, especially on Sunday and Holy Days.

• Develop an atmosphere that helps the parish enter into the spirit of celebration (banners, music, decorations, etc.)

• Recruit and train new ministers (greeters, lectors, altar servers, extraordinary eucharistic ministers, etc.)