There are many different ways that you too can get involved at St. Pauls.
- ACOLYTES Consisting of youth (ages 8 and up) and adults who serve with the clergy in all services, acolytes learn about the heart of worship – the meaning behind the motions. They learn reverence to God, following directions, leadership skills, and confidence.
- ALTAR GUILD This ministry is for those who are dedicated to Christ and who want to serve him by preparing the church and the altar for worship services. Responsibilities include: care of vestments, linens, and hangings; replacing the candles; and preparing the altar for Communion. Special duties also include preparations for weddings and funerals, as well as with high holy days around Christmas and Easter Week.
- CARE TEAM The Care Team Ministry is composed of Parish Nurses and health ministry committee members, working collaboratively to meet the holistic needs of the congregation and community. This is provided through health education and referrals, First Aid, CPR and AED certification.
The Care Team is active in outreach to the community through bereavement luncheons and contacts, a prayer shawl ministry, health ministry at soup kitchens, food pantries and Tioga Opportunities, a Blessing Box of nonperishable foods, household and personal care items, community Prayer Tags, and adopting needy families for our Christmas Angel tree.
- CHOIR Under the direction of Parish Organist and Choir Director Patti O’Connell, teens and adults minister in song and praise to the congregation on Sundays. The choir also sings at special services for Christmas and Easter, and especially during Choral Evensong services three times a year, during which the entire service of Evening Prayer is chanted and sung. One does not need to have a music background to be a part of the choir. Learning and fun accompany practices together, which is at 7:15PM Wednesdays at the church during the school year.
- ECW (EPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN) All women in the Episcopal Church are automatically members, and ECW is a place where women can get together to share fellowship, study, prayer, and service to the church and the community. Fundraising, sponsorships to ministries local and global, as well as regular help for functions in church life are important activities of ECW. Meetings are held monthly on Sundays at the church.
- EUCHARISTIC MINISTERS This is a special and personally rewarding ministry that brings Communion (the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Jesus) to the sick and shut-ins of our church family. Those interested must receive training from St. Paul’s and from the diocese, as the ministry is often personal and sacred – a relationship with God and with those receiving care that cannot be abused or disrespected.
- LECTORS AND CHALICE BEARERS Lectors and Chalice bearers have a special place in our worship services. Lectors have the privilege of reading scripture from the Old Testament and the Epistles (letters) from the New Testament during worship. Lectors also act as second chalice during the sacrament of Communion. Chalice bearers announce the Psalm, lead the Prayers of the People, and act as primary chalice during the sacrament of Communion.
- MEN’S FELLOWSHIP The men’s fellowship group is open to all men in the St. Paul’s community. Assisting with fundraisers, golf outings, Mother’s Day breakfast, and other activities keep the men of St. Paul’s busy. Come and Join us!
- USHERS & GREETERS We strive to be a welcoming and hospitable church family, so this ministry is very important and for anyone young or old who wishes to meet new people and help folks feel at home. In addition to greeting people and helping people to know their way around the church, volunteers also help collect the offering during Sunday worship and bring forward the bread and wine for Communion. Lastly, volunteers for this ministry can also serve at weddings, funerals, and music programs throughout the year.