For information about serving in Liturgical Ministries at Good Samaritan, Our Lady of Peace, or Saint John the Baptist, please contact Deacon Tony Giordano at agiordano@diopitt.org or (724) 385-8628.
“I am among you as the one who serves.” —Luke 22:27
This ministry is open to responsible, respectful young men and women, beginning in the fourth grade, and adults. The young servers assist the priest in the celebration of Mass on Sundays and Holy Days in order to allow the liturgy to proceed with dignity and grace. They may also be asked to serve during weddings, funerals, and other special occasions. Adult servers share this ministry for daily Mass and funerals. Training for new Altar Servers is provided during the summer and as needed throughout the year.
“He said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds.” —Matthew 14:19
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion must be fully initiated, practicing Catholics who are at least eighteen years of age and have a reverence for the Real Presence of Christ in the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Eucharist. This ministry facilitates the Communion Rite during Mass by assisting the priest in administering the Body and Blood of Christ our Lord. They also visit parish shut-ins, hospitals, and nursing homes with the Holy Eucharist to maintain the connection of our sick and elderly members with the Body of Christ and their Church family.
“Blessed is the one who reads aloud and blessed are those who listen to this prophetic message and heed what is written in it.”
—Revelation 1:3
Readers who proclaim the Word of God at Mass, Holy Days, and special liturgies have the ministry of bringing life to the Sacred Scriptures. Adults and teenagers who are at least sixteen years and have been confirmed can become Readers. All who undertake this ministry should study the Scriptures and have an ability to speak publicly with clarity and reverence for the Word of God.
“They shall make a sanctuary for me, that I may dwell in their midst.” —Exodus 25:8
Sacristans are responsible for the contents of the church related to all liturgical celebrations such as vestments, vessels, bread, wine, books, and altar linens. Sacristans set up for all Masses on Sundays, weekdays, Holy Days, funerals, weddings, and other special liturgical celebrations.