Worship
Anglican Worship
Anglican worship is a structured and reverent practice centered around the liturgy found in the Book of Common Prayer. Services typically include readings from the Bible, prayers, hymns, a sermon, and the celebration of the Eucharist (Holy Communion). The worship style is a blend of tradition and scripture, emphasizing a balance between word and sacrament.
In an Anglican service, you will often see a diverse congregation, including families, individuals, and clergy. Clergy members, such as priests and deacons, wear traditional vestments and lead the service. Laypersons may also participate in various roles, such as reading scripture, leading prayers, and assisting with the Eucharist.
The atmosphere is one of reverence and communal participation, inviting attendees to reflect, pray, and worship together in a shared faith experience.
Acolytes
Acolytes assist the priest, performing a number of important functions before, during, and at the close of the liturgy. The word “acolyte” means “follower” or “one who helps”. Students in middle School, high School, college, and adults are welcome and invited to serve as acolytes.
Acolytes train to learn the basics – the work of the crucifer and torchbearer during processions. We hold thurible workshops to build a corps of competent thurifers available for more services. We look forward, especially, to the “big” services when our training gets a real chance to shine: services like Palm Sunday, Easter, Pentecost, and Christmas.
In addition to their weekly service, and special service on festival days, annual events include a Shrove Tuesday / Mardi Gras Pancake Supper, a Maundy Thursday youth overnight vigil at the church, and leading the children’s Easter egg hunt. Contact Fr. Tom Simmons
Lay Eucharistic Ministers
Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs) are members of the laity (i.e., non-ordained persons) who assist the priest during the Eucharist by serving the consecrated elements to the people.
To serve as a Lay Eucharistic Minister at St. Peter’s, you need to:
- be at least 16 years old
be a baptized and confirmed member of the parish - apply for a license from the Bishop (applications available in church office)
- receive LEM instruction from the Rector or the Rector’s designee
If you would like more details about the duties of LEMs contact: Fr. Tom Simmons or Linda Stoutenburgh
Altar Guide
To serve the Lord’s Altar as a member of the Altar Guild is a privilege and a most rewarding experience. Members are dedicated, meticulous, and reverent as they care for His Table. The Altar Guild welcomes members who have served for many years as well as members who are just learning the intricate responsibilities that allow our church to welcome each season with fresh and beautiful greenery and floral displays.
Training is provided. Each Sunday is taken by one of the four teams of guild members who then share the joyful work of making our church a beautiful place for worship. The Altar Guild teams take on their jobs with cheerfulness, patience, and grace. Altar Guild is not just for women! We have men who serve also. We’d love to have you join us. Contact: Chris Lafferty, Altar Guild Leader & Wedding Coordinator
Lectors
Lectors are laypersons trained in reading scripture during a service. The term “Lector” is from the Latin, “to read.” “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1). Speaking this Word to the people is the role of Lector.
If you would like to participate in this ministry, please contact the Fr. Tom Simmons or Parish Administrator to arrange for your training.
Greeters
Greeters reflect the love of Jesus Christ to everyone who enters our church ensuring everyone is warmly welcomed and made to feel at home. This is a great way to get to know folks! Basic tasks include: Welcoming guests and regular attendees, Offer information, Lessen anxiety, Convey love and respect.
Greeter 1We encourage individuals, families, and youth to volunteer. Contact: Fr. Tom Simmons or Parish Administrator
Intercessors
Intercessors are one who prays on behalf of another or others through an intercessory prayer. Intercessors follow Jesus’ example as He is known as the heavenly intercessor who prays for us. (Romans 8:34; Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1)
At St. Peter’s they lead the Prayers of the People, which are prayers of intercession (BCP, pp. 383-395). The prayers are presented to the Lord on behalf of the congregation, and the congregation is invited to add prayers for their own special needs, concerns and blessings.
If you would like to be a part of this ministry, please contact Fr. Tom Simmons or Parish Administrator.
Ushers
Ushers
Ushers are laypersons who greet and assists people as they enter the church.
Contact: Fr. Tom Simmons or Parish Administrator if you would like to be part of this ministry.