OVERVIEW

Acolytes

Open to all young people in the church, the acolytes serve at the altar and in procession at many of the services of the church. While some training and practice is required, both boys and girls serve as torch bearers, crucifers, and senior acolytes at the Eucharist, progressing through training to increasing responsibility. 

Choir

St. John’s has long been committed to a serious music program, under the leadership of Ellen Nicholson, a very accomplished musician, teacher and choir director.  St. John's choir has an all-volunteer membership some of them with considerable music training. The Sunday anthems and service music is carefully and lovingly prepared.  New members are always welcome.

Eucharistic Ministers

Formerly known as “chalice bearers,” these members of St. John’s are privileged to serve at the altar, administering the wine of the Eucharist to the communicants. Any member is welcome to serve after a brief period of instruction. Ministers are always welcome to begin training.

As part of the “ministry of the laity” at St. John’s, our members participate in worship services by being the readers of the lessons and the psalms. As with so many of our opportunities, this ministry is open to any member after a brief training session.

Jim Neuburger+

Ushers

Ushers serve before and during services to distribute service bulletins and to help seat people efficiently and comfortably.  They also assist in the passing of the offering plate and with the procession of the congregation to the altar rail to receive Holy Communion. The ushers at St. John's are volunteers from the congregation, who have a brief period of instruction, are placed on a rotating roster and are invited to serve periodically.

Jim Neuburger+

Altar Guild

The altar guild at St. John’s offers a crucial ministry in the life of the church. They prepare the sacred objects of the worship service--the chalices, patens, candles, bread and wine, linens--and maintain the beauty of the sanctuary. As assistants to the ordained ministers, they coordinate and direct weddings, funerals, and other special services of the church year, including seasonal decorations. This group of dedicated servants of God do much to enhance worship at St. John’s.

Gloria Bullard and Frances Haslett

Coffee Hosts and Hostesses

Fellowship is important to our community, and we celebrate together after Sunday services with coffee and other delectables prepared and offered by our members on a rotating basis. Coffee hour is a time for meeting and learning about new members, catching up with long-time friends—and maybe even discussing points from the sermon or readings. The yoke is easy and the burden is light for the designated hosts; everybody has a chance to serve, so nobody needs to serve often. Mostly it’s a fun way to try a new recipe—or not—and to enjoy hosting a short celebration for close friends.