Liturgical Ministries

The Holy Eucharist service is why we come together each Sunday. The Liturgical Ministries team — no matter their role — supports each individual that comes to the Feast. From lector to Eucharistic Minister, acolyte to intercessor, our service is built by the devotion and love these servants offer.

ANCIENT ROLES,

NEW ACTORS

Liturgical ministers are crucial for every service. They pray for us, read for us; set the table and light the way for our clergy. Without our liturgical ministers, our voices would be duller and our sight dimmer. They serve to create a greater order and harmony to the service, illuminating the way to joy.

LECTORS

Read the Epistle and Tanakh reading for the day, and sometimes read the Psalm as well.

VERGERS

The Sunday service’s masters of ceremony, vergers ensure all bases are covered.

ALTAR GUILD

Keep our candles trimmed and burning, our altar spotless, and our sacred home in order.

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS

Assist the clergy with the chalices in serving the communion wine.

INTERCESSORS

Read the Prayers of the People, and all intercessory prayers during Baptisms, Confirmation, and Weddings.

ACOLYTES

For those in 4th-12th grade, our acolytes carry crosses, holy elements, and assist the clergy.

"This is another day, O Lord. I know not what it will bring forth, but make me ready, Lord, for whatever it may be. If I am to stand up, help me to stand bravely. If I am to sit still, help me to sit quietly. If I am to lie low, help me to do it patiently. And if I am to do nothing, let me do it gallantly. Make these words more than words, and give me the Spirit of Jesus."

The Book of Common Prayer, "The Prayer for Patience"

In the Christian tradition, contemplative prayer is considered to be the pure gift of God.

It is an opening of mind and heart, our whole being to God, the Ultimate Mystery,

beyond thoughts, words, and emotions. It is simply resting in the presence of God.

Like all Christian prayer, contemplative prayer is rooted in the word of God in scripture

and in the person of Jesus Christ. Its source is the indwelling Trinity; Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

God in unconditional LOVE takes the initiative in relation to us.

At the same time our desire for God is also God's gift to us.

Centering Prayer

Sunday Mornings 9am

Thursday Evenings 6pm

In the Chapel of the Holy Innocents

The Practice of Centering Prayer familiarizes us with God’s

first language – SILENCE. This method of silent prayer serves to prepare one to receive the gifts of God’s presence. It is simple yet profound in its effects.

The Mystics Study Group

Thursday Evenings 6:30pm

In the Chapel of the Holy Innocents

We use the study of the Mystics throughout history as a guide. These people lived the Contemplative life in search of God’s constant presence. We can learn about deepening our own spiritual lives through their example and testimony. Our first book to read and discuss: The Naked Now, by The Rev. Richard Rohr.

All Saint John’s Bible images used in this website are used with permission by and the property of Saint John’s University, Collegeville, Minnesota.