When several pastors were asked: “For which ministries at your parish are you most in need of more volunteers?” their common response was: “All of them.”
Parishes rely on parishioners to volunteer their time and talents to various ministries. Those who commit to a parish ministry often find it is a great way to meet people and build community.
At every parish, there are a variety of ministries parishioners can get involved in. Whether you’re 16 or 60, have an hour or 10 hours to give, enjoy gardening or crunching numbers, there is a ministry at your parish to suit you.
Here are some ideas offered by area pastors:
• If you are an artistic type, consider joining your parish’s liturgical art committee. This ministry involves decorating the church for different liturgical seasons.
• If you are an extrovert, consider being a greeter or an usher. Welcome people as they enter the church, distribute worship aids and bulletins, direct parishioners to available seats, assist with the offertory collection. This is a wonderful ministry for families to do together.
• If you are a good cook, consider offering your culinary skills to prepare meals after funerals.
• If you are a teenager, consider being an altar server or an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist. This is a great way to learn more about the Mass.
• If you are a musician, consider being a cantor, singing with the choir or playing an instrument during Mass.
• If you are handy, consider helping with parish maintenance projects.
• If you are good with numbers, consider joining the finance committee.
• If you are married, consider helping an engaged couple prepare for the sacrament of marriage.
These are just a few ideas to get you thinking. Inquire at your parish for more ministry opportunities.
