Ministers of the Mass

It takes many people to celebrate mass. “To Minister” means “to serve.” All of these people serve the parish and help the congregation at mass to worship.

Priest, Celebrant – The priest presides over the celebration of mass. Sometimes, at what is called a concelebrated mass, there may be more than one priest. The priest who presides at mass is the one you should be most concerned with as your job is to help him.

Deacon – When present, the deacon usually proclaims the Gospel, preaches, prepares the gifts for Eucharist, helps to distribute Communion, and gives direction to the people.

Acolytes – Their duty is to purify the sacred vessels, attend to the service of the altar and to assist the deacon and the priest in liturgical celebrations, especially in the celebration of the Mass.

Altar Servers – This is you and the ways in which you serve the Priest and the Church Community are listed in this manual.

Lector – The person(s) who read(s) the first two readings during the Liturgy of the Word. Cantor – The person who leads the hymns, acclamations, and the responsorial psalms. Music Director – The person in charge of the music for the mass.

Choir – The choir leads the church community in song.

Sacristan – This person helps prepare for the mass, lights the candles and provides assistance to the altar servers.

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion – These ministers assist with the distribution of Communion.

Greeters – These people greet the community as they arrive for mass. Ushers – These people take up the collection.