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Work of the People

Soren Kierkegaard, the 19th century Danish philosopher, liked to say that if worship is a drama, then God alone is the audience. Of course, sometimes the congregation feels like the audience–with the clergy, choir, and acolytes putting on a show. But we are all meant to be actors in this play because liturgy is something we offer to God together. (The Greek word leitourgia actually means “work of the people.”) This means the most important role to play on any given Sunday is that of an active member of the congregation.

For worship to flow smoothly, however, we rely on the efforts of a large number of volunteers. There are many essential leadership roles for  active lay members of the parish.

“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.”

– John 12:26

Acolytes

Acolytes lead processions as crucifers, torchbearers or banner bearers, and assist the clergy at the Altar. Children and youth fill these roles at the 9:10 a.m. service (contact Vicki Hall). At all other services, acolytes also serve as lay readers and chalice bearers. Contact the Rev. Matt Oprendek to get involved.

Altar Guild

Members of the Altar Guild are responsible for preparing the Church for worship. They care for the linens, hangings and other fixtures in the sanctuary. If you are interested in joining, contact parishioner Kristin Hardwick.

Choirs

At St. James’, music is an integral part of our worship. Choirs lead our 9:10 and 11:15 a.m. Sunday worship services. The Canterbury Choir at 9:10 is comprised primarily of volunteers, while the Compostela Choir at 11:15 is comprised of auditioned professionals and volunteers. Contact Kenneth Miller for more information.

Learn more about our choirs
Greeters & Ushers

Greeters are on-hand before and after our worship services to welcome all and to answer any questions. Ushers assist with the collection of the offering and guide the congregation to the altar during communion. At the 9:10 a.m. service, youth in grades 8-12 serve as ushers; contact Calvin Bushman to get involved. At all other services, contact the Rev. Matt Oprendek to become a greeter or usher.

Lay Reader/Chalice Bearers

Lay servers assist with the celebration of the Eucharist by reading scripture and serving the chalice at the altar rail for each of our Sunday services and on other holy days. After a training program, they are licensed by the Bishop. Contact the Rev. Matt Oprendek or, for children who are interested in reading at the 9:10 service, contact Vicki Hall.

Lay Eucharistic Visitors

Lay Eucharistic Visitors (LEVs) are licensed by the Bishop to administer the consecrated elements of the eucharist to members of the congregation who were unable to be present with us. Contact the Rev. Marisa Sifontes for more information.

Healing Prayer

One of the ways we care for each other is through healing prayer in the laying on of hands and offering of individual prayer. Our ministers meet with and pray for those who request prayer during communion on the first Sunday of the month. To learn more about becoming a lay healing prayer minister, please contact the Rev. Marisa Sifontes.