January's ministry focus is liturgical leadership - reading a lesson or the prayers, serving the chalice at Communion, singing in one of the choirs, or serving as an acolyte. These ministries are highly visible and so may not need a lot of explanation. But we always welcome newcomers to investigate and perhaps take on one of these important jobs. What I appreciate most about these good folks, is their willingness to step in and fill the need whenever we have a service. Many of our worship leaders wear several hats (such as singer + lector + chalice-bearer) but that isn't a requirement for participation! Instead, we want to help people share a gift they have with the community of St. Luke's. We provide the training, and only the Eucharistic Minister (chalice bearer) needs an additional class and a license from the diocese.

Lectors read a lesson during the worship. This is a ministry that young people as well as adults can exercise; and we include a variety of voices each week. If you can read a story aloud to a small child and keep her attention, you can be a lector! With a little practice, and getting used to the lectern and microphone, you can exercise this important ministry of bringing us the Word.

Leading the Prayers of the People is just a little more complicated than reading a lesson. This role is usually taken by a licensed Eucharistic Minister, but can also be done by someone coming from the congregation, choir or acolyte corps. Prior to the service, this minister reviews the Prayers with the clergy - especially how to pronounce any names.

Acolytes lead our processions and serve at the altar. Usually starting at age 9 or 10, the young people in our corps begin by carrying the Torches, and learn how to work as a team. Acolytes with more experience set the pace as Crucifer, even Thurifer (incense-swinger); and work with the deacon and priest at the altar.

Eucharistic Ministers used to be called Chalice-Bearers. This role requires some special training on the sacrament of Communion, the logistics of serving the wine, and other duties sometimes assigned (such as reading a lesson or the prayers; and serving the altar at the 5 p.m. or 8 a.m. service). We are in particular need of help at those two, smaller services.