SEPTEMBER 2008 MINISTRY UPDATE
Thank you for your patience as we continue to learn and work with all the parameters of our scheduling software program. Due to the lateness of this mailing, a Reference Copy was available in the Adornment Room for your perusal this past weekend; all Ministers who are scheduled for the weekend of September 6 & 7 will receive a phone call of notification as a courtesy. There are still a few “bugs” in the system; rather than mailing out another schedule, a few corrections will be sent out shortly. We also welcome Maria Neiber as a Liturgy Assistant! Pamela Orlando, who has been such a big help these past few months, will continue to lend a hand during this transition period.
A few reminders for all Liturgical Ministers can be a big help when it comes to having all duties covered at a particular Mass.
1) If you know in advance that you will be unable to serve at a scheduled time, please arrange for a substitute. Ministers usually feel most comfortable approaching those who serve at their “regular” Mass time; if this does not work out, please refer to the Substitute List that is included with every schedule.
If family members who serve in different ministries wish to serve together, please have all family members indicate the same Mass time preference on the Minister Data Form.
You might also add a note about additional family members; this will make our cross-referencing easier and more accurate..2) Communion Ministers: Because more of you are needed at each Mass, you are called on to serve with greater frequency that other ministries. Thank you for your generosity! Certain Masses have a smaller number of Communion Ministers in their “pool” than others, such as the 12:00 pm and 5:30 pm Sunday Masses. Even if you are not scheduled, please consider checking in the Adornment Room to see if your service may be needed.. With this in mind, it is always best to dress as if you were planning on serving. If you wish to switch places with another Minister for whatever reason, please feel free to do so.
3) Altar Servers: As each Server becomes older, particularly through high school, it is crucial that we have accurate information when scheduling this important ministry. The leadership of our Lead Altar Servers is an important example to younger Servers. However, if changes in your life or schedule (i.e., moving away to college!) make it impossible to continue serving, please let us know as soon as possible. A Minister Data Form is included in this mailing; please indicate your current preferences carefully.
4) Lectors: The order in which your name appears on the schedule can be considered the order in which you will proclaim the Word of God. Hopefully, your preparation includes studying all the day’s scriptures; this should prepare you to proclaim either, or both, readings, if necessary.
Your hard work and devoted service is gratefully received, and deeply appreciated!
Peace,
Jane A. Smith, DMA, Director of Liturgy & Music
Our Lady of the Annunciation Parish
Call the Liturgy Office for more information: (505) 298-9636.