St. James's Episcopal Church
West Hartford Center
© 2009 St. James's Episcopal Church
MINISTRIES: Other Opportunities for Adults
Opportunities for lay ministry and volunteerism in the parish of St. James's
Church are many and varied. Each individual in the Body of Christ is entrusted with many gifts and talents. Our goal is that each member be involved in at least one ministry of the church. A member of the clergy, staff member or parishioner can assist you in finding a ministry in the parish where the contribution of your gifts, talents and time will be a blessing to others and enriching to you as well.
Church are many and varied. Each individual in the Body of Christ is entrusted with many gifts and talents. Our goal is that each member be involved in at least one ministry of the church. A member of the clergy, staff member or parishioner can assist you in finding a ministry in the parish where the contribution of your gifts, talents and time will be a blessing to others and enriching to you as well.
ALTAR GUILD
prepares the altar and church for liturgical services and
cares for the vestments, altar vessels, and hangings. Membership is open
to all parishioners.
to all parishioners.
LAY LITURGICAL MINISTERS
assist clergy at all worship services. A
lay reader is a member of the congregation who reads the scripture lessons
of the day. The intercessor reads the prayers of the people representing
the parish in prayers both personal and universal. Lay readers may also
lead weekday Morning Prayer. A chalice bearer wears vestments and offers
the chalice during the administration of Communion. A lay Eucharistic
minister is trained to bring Holy Eucharist to those who are unable to attend
worship.
of the day. The intercessor reads the prayers of the people representing
the parish in prayers both personal and universal. Lay readers may also
lead weekday Morning Prayer. A chalice bearer wears vestments and offers
the chalice during the administration of Communion. A lay Eucharistic
minister is trained to bring Holy Eucharist to those who are unable to attend
worship.
USHERS AND GREETERS
are often the first persons to welcome guests as
they come to worship. They distribute service bulletins, assist with the offerings and respond to needs that arise during time of worship. Greeters welcome newcomers providing guidance during and after the services.
ALTAR FLOWERS
are a visible way in which to honor a loved one. The flowers may be given in
memory of loved ones or in recognition or thanksgiving for some special occasion in life.
Parishioners are encouraged to offer their gifts to this ministry.
Parishioners are encouraged to offer their gifts to this ministry.
PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY
members knit prayer shawls to be given to anyone in need of special
comfort and solace. Knitting time is spent in personal prayer and reflection by the person
creating each shawl.
creating each shawl.
FUNDRAISING
provides opportunities for others to learn about St. James's. It includes organizing
the Memorial Day strawberry shortcake festivities, Christmas tree sales, and auctions.
PARISH LIFE COMMITTEE
organizes potluck brunches and suppers, the annual chili cook-off,
Shrove Tuesday's pancake supper, and the parish picnic. Members of this committee also help
to organize coffee hours and lemonade on the lawn in the summer. This committee is always
looking for volunteers to help with these and other parish events.
to organize coffee hours and lemonade on the lawn in the summer. This committee is always
looking for volunteers to help with these and other parish events.
WOMEN OF ST. JAMES'S
meet on Tuesdays from October to May. All members of the parish
MEN'S DISCUSSION GROUP
is faith exploration by an intimate, collegial and confidential group of
Episcopal men. The group meets regularly on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month.
Other Opportunities
and their guests are welcome to be a part of the Women of St. James's. This is the only group of Episcopal women in Connecticut that has been meeting every Tuesday (Oct-May) for lunch for over one hundred years. We come together for fellowship and stimulating programs with outside speakers from the arts, government, community, religious and nonprofit groups, health, hobbies, and entertainment. We also offer worship and Bible study before the meetings for those who can come earlier. Men are also welcome. The Women of St. James's sponsor and manage several parish-wide events including rummage sales and a Christmas Tea to support parish and outreach programs. For a listing of this year's programs and special events,
please go to