Dear Parishioners, Ushers, Greeters & Those Called to Ministry,
As Christians, our greatest desire is to love God – and to love others. If I’ve learned anything in the years I’ve worked for Our Lady of Lourdes parish, it’s that we love God and we love others VERY WELL. I cannot count or relay the number of times I’ve been told how welcoming and hospitable our parish is. We model this love of others every time we come together to pray and table-fellowship at parish luncheons, funerals, in the celebration of marriage at the Sweethearts Dinner and on so many other occasions. The spirit of hospitality that Our Lady of Lourdes is so well known for is a gift from the Holy Spirit, and we honor that gift well.
In large part, being known for a spirit of welcome is a direct result of the ushers and greeters who serve within our Ministries and WE THANK YOU! You have welcomed all to Mass and gatherings as if they were Christ, helping them to feel comfortable and “a part of us”. You have chosen to serve God’s Kingdom with generosity and have greeted others with great kindness and joy.
As we prepare for our Liturgical Ministry event on Sunday, September 15th we ask all existing Ushers and Greeters AND those who feel called to both ministries to join us at Noon in the Church. We will begin with a brief orientation and prayer and then receive updated training. As you discern your continued (or new) call to ministry, please consider some of the duties that would be asked of you:
- Welcoming and greeting parishioners and newcomers at the entrances to the Church
- Directing and assisting with emergency situations (including medical, weather or other disruptions to the Liturgy)
- Helping seat parishioners and guests (particularly during the Christmas & Easter Season)
- Ensuring the Offertory is collected
- Ensuring the Gifts of Bread & Wine are presented to the priests and deacons during Mass
- Assist and usher the assembly during Holy Communion – particularly those with mobility issues or special needs
- Distributing Bulletins at the end of Mass
During these weeks leading up to our Liturgical Ministry event, we are given the opportunity to remember that we have each been uniquely gifted by the Holy Spirit to advance the Kingdom. Please prayerfully consider how the Holy Spirit is calling you to Ministry. If you are unsure of which Ministry may serve your gift well, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
On Sunday, September 15th Linda Meade will be with us to train our existing and new greeters and Steve Capellas and Chris Walker will welcome and train new and existing ushers.
Please join us!
With Gratitude,
Mary Hernandez
PA for Parish Life