Liturgical Ministries for Worship Lay Eucharistic Ministers are Lay persons, trained in the parish and licensed by the bishop, to assist the clergy as they administer the consecrated elements of the eucharist. Lay eucharistic ministers may be licensed to administer the consecrated bread and wine at any celebration of the eucharist in the absence of a sufficient number of priests and deacons to assist the celebrant. This ministry is understood to be an extraordinary ministry, and is not to take the place of the ministry of priests and deacons concerning the administration of the eucharist. Prior to the current lay ministry canons, specially licensed lay readers administered the chalice at the eucharist and were known as “chalice bearers.” Lay Eucharistic Visitors are Lay Eucharistic Ministers who are additionally licensed and overseen by a priest or deacon to share the sacrament with members of the congregation who were unable to be present at the celebration because of illness or infirmity. Lay eucharistic ministers may be licensed for either or both ministries. Lectors (readers) are lay persons trained in reading scripture who are appointed by the clergy person in charge of the congregation to read lessons or lead the prayers of the people. The term is from the Latin, “to read.” There is no license required for this lay ministry. A lector may also be known as a reader. The Choir - The choir is made up of singers who provide musical leadership for congregational singing in the worship of the church. Choirs may also sing anthems or make other special musical offerings to beautify and enhance the experience of worship. The primary role of the choir is to lead and support the congregation's worship through singing, not to provide a musical performance. St. John's Choir meets on Sunday mornings before the 10:00 service. Please just show up in the church at 9:30 if you'd like to join, Contemplative Music for 5th Sundays Ushers/Greeters welcome worshipers as they enter the church, assist visitors and newcomers, distribute bulletins, assist with seating when needed, collect the offering, and assist parishioners with getting to and from the communion rail. Altar Guild members prepare the altar for services whether held in the church or other locations (occasionally we hold outdoor services) including regularly scheduled worship, as well as weddings and funerals. They maintain all the altar metal-ware, linens, and candles. Ideally two or three people work together as a team. Flower Guild members prepare flowers and other decorative elements for the services including regularly scheduled worship, as well as weddings and funerals. The Flower Guild also sometimes prepares flowers and decorates the Parish Hall for some special events. Members sometimes work on their own but enjoy teamwork and plan together when schedules allow.