Lectors proclaim the Word of God from the Old and New Testaments (except for the Gospel readings which are proclaimed by an ordained cleric). This ministry requires persons with good public reading skills, such as enunciation, voice projection, etc. But even more important than technique is the lived experience of the lector who personally meditates on the Word of God. Lectors communicate that the ancient words of Scripture have meaning for today, that they have personally struggled with the truths of Scripture, and that they have tried to adapt them to their own lives. They proclaim in such a way that the real presence of Christ in the Scriptures can transform the lives of those who hear the Word of God.

Cantors are the leaders of song for the worshiping assembly. Because singing is crucial to worship, cantors need to be familiar and comfortable with the songs they lead. Like lectors, they must pray and meditate on the Responsorial Psalm because this too is the Word of God proclaimed from the lectern. Cantors lead best when they are focused, clear, strong, but not overpowering. They do not replace the singing of the assembly, but rather empower and enhance it.

Servers or acolytes assist the ministers of worship in carrying out their role of leading the community in prayer. They carry candles with the processional cross, focusing for the assembly the fact that, because of the redemption won for us on the Cross, we can enter into this celebration. They carry candles with the Book of the Gospels and stand on either side during its proclamation. This highlights the special significance of the Gospel for our lives. They hold the book of prayers for the presider while he leads the prayers. They assist in preparing the altar for the Eucharist, bringing cups, wine, water, etc. to the altar. Servers help the worship of the community to proceed smoothly and efficiently.

Eucharistic ministers are the assembly members appointed to help in the distribution of the Eucharist when there are not enough clerics present to give communion in a timely fashion. Because they present Christ himself, the Body and Blood of the Lord, to the communicants, they reflect the dignity of the moment by their decorum and solemnity. As they present “the Body of Christ” and “the Blood of Christ” to each communicant, they look in the face of each one in order to convey the love that the Lord Jesus himself offers to each person.    

Ushers or greeters are responsible for hospitality. This ministry includes: making sure the worship space is clean, comfortable and inviting; greeting parishioners as they enter and as they leave the church; collecting the offering and organizing the presentation of the gifts. Ushers are also responsible for dealing with emergencies or other disruptions of the celebration. At all times they show special respect for individuals and represent the very hospitality of Christ.