Saint Julie Billiart Parish Belong Ministry Directory www.saintjulies.org 508 993 2351
Every parish is a community made up of people who desire a close relationship with God through Jesus and the Holy Spirit. This closeness is discovered and nurtured, not in isolation, but in community. The mission of any parish community is to support us, its members, and the communities in which we live, as we seek to recognize the presence of God through all people and places, ages and stages of life. Each of us is a unique creation of God with a mix of talents and abilities with which we can serve God and one another. The psalmist writes: For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Psalm 139:13-14 It is our hope that you will find God s purpose for you here in your spiritual home. May you feel a sense of welcome through involvement as you share your gifts with your parish and community in the name and spirit of our Lord.
Ministries that assist the Mass ALTAR SERVER / ACOLYTE, YOUTH Goal: To minister at God s altar with reverence, dignity and with love. Responsibilities: Assist the priest/deacon at Mass on Saturdays, Sundays and Holy Days. Servers may be asked to serve at weddings, First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Senior Altar Servers may occasionally act as the Master of Ceremony on special feasts. Set up/clean up before and after Mass. Who: Parish youth in grades 3-12 who have received First Holy Communion are invited to this ministry. Time Commitment: A schedule is prepared on a rotating, as available basis. Parents are surveyed before a schedule is prepared. Schedules are emailed to the parents and posted to the parish website. Arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins, remain to clean up after Mass. Training: Training for Altar Servers is provided by the parish. Rehearsals are held for the liturgies of Holy Week. ALTAR SERVER / ACOLYTE, ADULT Goal: To minister at God s altar with reverence, dignity and with love. Responsibilities: Assist the priest/deacon at Mass on weekdays and at funerals. Also, when youth are not available, may be asked to assist the priest/deacon at Mass on Saturdays, Sundays and Holy Days. Servers arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins to set up for the Mass. After Mass Altar Servers clean up /or set up for the next Mass. Who: Parish Adults who typically attend daily Mass and have the ability to climb stairs. Time Commitment: Adult altar servers usually commit to serve on a particular day or days each week. Funeral Servers are assigned through the parish office. Arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins, remain to clean up after Mass. Training: Training for Altar Servers is provided by the parish. ALTAR SERVER COORDINATOR Goal: Assure that well trained Altar Servers are available to assist at all parish Masses. 4
Ministries that assist the Mass Responsibilities: Participate in the recruiting, training and scheduling of Youth and Adult Altar Servers. Who: An adult who has Altar Service experience and basic computer skills for email, schedule preparation and communication with parents. Time Commitment: Be available to train new Altar Servers as needed. Schedule preparation 1-2 hours per month. Training: Training is one-on-one with the designated parish staff member. CHOIR, ADULT Goal: To enhance parish worship through sacred music. Responsibilities: The choir leads the community in prayerful song at the 9am Mass on Sundays as well as other significant liturgical feasts. Who: Adults who have vocal ability and enjoy singing as part of a group. Time Commitment: Attendance at liturgies as indicated above. Arrive well before Mass for warm up. Rehearsals when required, typically once per week. Training: Formal voice training/experience are a plus but not required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. CHOIR, CHILDREN / YOUTH Goal: To enhance parish worship through traditional and sacred music. Responsibilities: This choir sings occasionally at the 9am Mass on Sundays as well as other significant church feasts. Who: Youth who have at least minimal vocal ability and enjoy singing. Time Commitment: Attendance at liturgies as indicated above. Arrive well before Mass for warm up. Rehearsals when required. Training: Formal voice training / experience a definite plus but not required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. 5
Ministries that assist the Mass HOSPITALTITY (MASS GREETER) Goal: Convey a sense of warmth and welcome to all who enter our church. Responsibilities: Greet others and hand out bulletins before Mass. At times, provide directions or information about the parish and its programs. Lend a hand to anyone who may need assistance entering the building. Assure that the current bulletins are in the racks by the church doors. Who: Friendly adults, teens or families. Time Commitment: Arrive 30 minutes before Mass begins. Typically, assigned 1-2 times per month. Training: Meet with Hospitality Coordinator. Attend workshop when offered. HOSPITALTITY (MASS GREETER) COORDINATOR Goal: Orient new greeters to convey a sense of warmth and welcome to all who enter our church. Maintain a schedule so that greeters are present at weekend Masses. Responsibilities: Participate in the recruiting, training and scheduling of Hospitality Ministers ( greeters ). Who: An adult who has basic computer skills for email, schedule creation and communication with greeters. Time Commitment: Be available to meet with new Hospitality Ministers. Schedule preparation, no more than 1 hour per month. Training: Training is one-on-one with the designated parish staff member. OFFERTORY COLLECTOR Goal: To be in service of hospitality and management of the parish offertory collection. Responsibilities: Collect the offerings of the people. Help those who are attending Mass find adequate seating (on major feasts), direct them to restrooms, apprise the pastor of any special needs or circumstances which may arise. 6
Ministries that assist the Mass Who: All men and women are welcome to serve in this role. All that s needed is a friendly disposition and desire to serve. Time Commitment: Arrive before Mass begins and check in. Training: Training sessions are seasonal or one-on-one. Attend workshops when offered. LECTOR Goal: Lectors play an important role in the liturgical life of the parish, as they proclaim God s Holy Word to the assembly. Responsibilities: A lector prepares before Mass by praying throughout the week with the reading(s) assigned. They read all applicable sections of the Lector Workbook and practice proclaiming the reading(s) aloud at home. In the absence of a Deacon, carry the Book of the Gospels in the entrance procession. Who: An adult or mature teen who is able to read aloud clearly, changing tone as the reading demands. Time Commitment: Preparation at home. Arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins. Typically, lectors are assigned 1-2 times per month. Training: Training is one-on-one with the designated parish staff member. Rehearsals are sometimes held for the liturgies of Holy Week. Attend workshops when offered. LECTOR, FUNERAL MASS Goal: To proclaim the Word of God at Funeral Liturgies when the family does not wish to assume this role. Responsibilities: Proclaim the word of God conveying compassion and a hope in the Resurrection. Dress appropriately for a funeral liturgy. Who: Parishioners who are already experienced Lectors. Time Commitment: As needed. The best candidates are those who are free most mornings. Arrive 15 minutes before the Funeral Mass is scheduled to begin. Training: Meet with the designated staff member to review typical selections for a Funeral Mass. 7
Ministries that assist the Mass EXTRAORDINARY MINISTER OF HOLY COMMUNION, MASS Goal: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are graced with the opportunity to share Christ s body and blood with others. They recognize Christ in the faces of all who approach. Responsibilities: Check in 10-15 minutes before Mass begins. Communicate availability to schedule coordinator. Find a replacement when unable to serve. Who: At the invitation of the Pastor. Parishioners who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation, and have a deep belief in the real presence of the Body and Blood of Christ in the Sacrament. Have the ability to climb stairs. Time Commitment: Arrive 15 minutes before Mass begins. Typically, EMHCs are assigned 1-3 times per month. Schedules are emailed about every 6-8 weeks. Training: Attend diocesan, as well as a parish specific training sessions. Attend workshops when offered. EXTRAORDINARY MINISTER OF HOLY COMMUNION, HOME Goal: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion bring the sacramental presence of Jesus to members of our parish family who are unable to attend Mass due to illness or disability. Responsibilities: Contact the person to be visited before attending Mass. Arrive 10 minutes before Mass begins, and place your pyx in the designated area. Leave the church and travel to make your visit in prayerful silence. Communicate with the home ministry coordinator. Who: Parish Adults who are currently serving as EMHCs or at the invitation of the pastor. Have a deep belief in the real presence of the Body and Blood of Christ in the Sacrament and heartfelt compassion for those visited. Time Commitment: Typically, visits are made once a month. Time spent in the home is typically about 20 minutes, but may vary depending on the health of the person visited. Training Attend diocesan, as well as a parish specific training sessions. Attend workshops when offered. 8
Ministries that assist the Mass EMHC / LECTOR SCHEDULER Goal: Support the liturgical life of the parish by assuring that an adequate number of Lectors and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are present at each Mass. Responsibilities: Participate in scheduling Lectors and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for weekend and Holy Day Masses in cooperation with the designated staff member. Who: An adult who has basic computer skills for email, schedule creation and communication with Lectors and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Time Commitment: 1-2 hours per month. Training: Training is one-on-one with the designated parish staff member. EMHC, HOME COORDINATOR Goal: Support the spiritual life of our parish members who are unable to attend Mass due to illness or age. Responsibilities: Assure that an adequate number of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are available to bring Communion to those who request home Communion. Communicate with individuals and families requesting home Communion. Communicate to the priest the number of Communion visits each monthly home Communion Sunday. (Once per month.) Provide additional training to EMHCs who bring Communion to the homebound. Who: An EMHC who has experience with distributing Communion outside of the Mass, compassion for the infirmed and elderly, has basic computer skills for email, schedule creation and communication with the priest and Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Time Commitment: 1-2 hours per month. Training: Training is one-on-one with the designated parish staff member. 9
Ministries that assist the Mass CHURCH ENVIRONMENT TEAM Goal: To provide a beautiful, functional Liturgical environment throughout all the feasts and seasons of the church year. Responsibilities: Vary. Those involved with planning meet more frequently to create a plan and gather materials for the upcoming season. Lend a hand to prepare the church for major feasts and seasons. Who: Parishioners who enjoy working as a team. All abilities are welcome. Some climb ladders, others work with flowers, lights or fabric. An understanding of the seasons of the church year is helpful, but not necessary. Time Commitment: Varies depending on the time of year. Many hands are appreciated during Advent, Christmas and Holy Week. Training: No special training is needed. 10
Passing on the Faith Young Children CHILDREN S LITURGY OF THE WORD, CATECHIST Goal: To provide preschool through grade 5 students an opportunity to hear and discuss the weekly Gospel reading in language they can understand. Responsibilities: Escort students prior to the Liturgy of the Word during 9am Mass to the parish conference rooms for a 15-20-minute discussion on the Gospel. Return students in time for the Liturgy of the Eucharist to be shared with their families. Who: Faith-filled adults interested in sharing their faith with our youth. Time Commitment: Twice a month from September through April. Preparation time is needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Read preparation materials in advance and complete CORI training. CHILDREN S LITRUGY OF THE WORD, COORDINATOR Goal: To coordinate the Children s Liturgy of the Word Program. Responsibilities: Coordinate and distribute schedules and lesson materials to catechists. Who: Faith-filled adult interested in sharing their faith with our youth, who has volunteered as a Children s Liturgy of the Word Catechist. Time Commitment: An estimated 3 hours/quarter to organize and distribute lesson plans to volunteers. Also teach 1 time / month September through April. Training: Orientation provided, complete CORI training. 11
Passing on the Faith CATECHIST GRADES 1-5 Goal: To carry on the teaching ministry of Jesus with our young people. Responsibilities: Responsible for weekly instruction held at Bishop Stang High School from September through May. Who: Faith-filled adults who enjoy working with children. Time Commitment: Classes meet weekly on Sundays for 1 hour and 15 minutes, from September through April. Preparation time is needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Attend initial meeting to review materials and attend required CORI training. CATECHIST HELPER GRADES 1-5 Goal: To carry on the teaching ministry of Jesus with our young people. Responsibilities: Catechist Helpers are responsible for assisting Catechists as they implement weekly instruction held at Bishop Stang High School from September through May. Who: Faith-filled teens and adults who enjoy working with children. Time Commitment: Classes meet weekly on Sundays for 1 hour and 15 minutes, from September through April. Preparation time may be needed to assist the classroom Catechist. Instruction materials are provided in advance. Training: Attend initial meeting to review materials and complete required CORI training. CATECHIST, FOR DELAYED SACRAMENTS Goal: This ministry provides for those students who have missed preparation classes for First Holy Communion. This accelerated program prepares students for the sacraments of Holy Communion and First Reconciliation. 12
Passing on the Faith Responsibilities: Catch Up Catechist would be responsible for weekly instruction held at Bishop Stang High School from September through May. Registration begins in August. Who: Faith-filled adults who enjoy working with children. Time Commitment: Classes meet weekly on Sundays for 1 1/2 hours each. Preparation time is needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Attend initial meeting to review materials and required CORI training. GUARDIAN ANGEL Goal: Act as a role model for a grade 2 student and his/her family. Encourage Mass attendance, daily prayer and unity amongst our parish family. Responsibilities: Pray for your student throughout the year. Attend a designated 9am Sunday Mass each month from October through May. After Mass meet with your student and family for a ½ hour activity or social time. Who: Adults seeking to unify our parish family through prayer and by engaging with a young family. Time Commitment: Attendance at 9am Mass on the designated Sunday of each month, followed by a ½ hour social and attendance at First Holy Communion. Training: None required. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (VBS), ADULT HELPER Goal: To assist the program Coordinator by providing an uplifting experience that can enhance a child's spirituality and social skills. Responsibilities: Lead group discussions and activities and help supervise the children who attend VBS and/or help Coordinator prepare materials. 13
Passing on the Faith Who: Any responsible adult who enjoys sharing our faith with children. Time Commitment: Monday Friday 8:30 12 for one week during the Summer. Attend 3 preparatory meetings prior to VBS week. Training: Attend preparatory meetings prior to VBS week. CORI required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (VBS), TEEN HELPER Goal: To assist the program coordinator and other adult leaders by providing an uplifting experience that can enhance a child's spirituality and social skills. Responsibilities: Assist adults and children, help with activities, and or help Coordinator prepare materials. Who: Any responsible interested teen. Time Commitment: Monday Friday 8:30 12 for one week during the Summer. Attend 1 preparatory meetings prior to VBS week. Training: Attend one preparatory meetings prior to VBS week. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL (VBS), COORDINATOR Goal: Prepare and present a program that will provide an uplifting experience that serves to enhance a child's spirituality and social skills. Responsibilities: Choose and implement a one week VBS program each summer. Recruit and train volunteers, both adults and teens. Oversee the preparation of program materials. Coordinate event space with the parish office. Who: Any responsible interested adult who enjoys sharing our faith with children. 14
Passing on the Faith Time Commitment: Monday Friday 8:30 12 for one week during the Summer. Preparatory meetings prior to VBS week as needed. Training: Teaching and or VBS or Catechist experience is preferred. CORI required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. Tweens and Teens EDGE CATECHIST Goal: EDGE Catechists help to administer the Catholic middle school youth ministry program geared towards the preparation of the Sacrament of Confirmation. EDGE is designed to meet the following needs: catechetical, educational, spiritual, social and emotional. Responsibilities: Edge Catechists support the implementation of lesson plans designed and led by the EDGE Director on a weekly basis held in the church center. Who: Adults and confirmed teens dedicated to sharing their faith with middle school aged students. Time Commitment: The Edge Program is held weekly in the church hall, with required Mass attendance from September through May. Preparation time is needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Attend preparation meetings, accompany students to required Masses and complete CORI training. EDGE HELPER: Goal: To assist Edge Catechists in the administration of the Catholic middle school youth ministry program. Responsibilities: Attend EDGE nights, preparation as needed. Tasks vary, may involve snacks, attendance or small group 15
Passing on the Faith management. Preparation time may be needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Who: Responsible adults and confirmed teens with a willingness to spread their faith with our youth. Time Commitment: EDGE Program is held weekly in the church hall with required Mass attendance from September through May. Training: Attend preparation meetings, accompany students to required Masses and complete CORI training. LIFETEEN HELPER Goal: To assist LIFE TEEN Catechists in the administration of the Catholic high school youth ministry program, designed for the preparation of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Responsibilities: Attend LIFE nights, and Youth Masses, weekend Retreat and Confirmation Mass. Who: Adults with a willingness to share their faith with our teens. Time Commitment: LIFE TEEN is held weekly in the church hall with required Mass attendance from September through May. Preparation time is occasionally needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Attend preparation meetings and complete CORI training. LIFETEEN PEER MINISTER Goal: To share and witness faith to the Catholic high school youth ministry program. Responsibilities: Attend LIFE nights, and Youth Masses, weekend Retreat and Confirmation Mass. Who: Responsible teens who have received the Sacrament of Confirmation who have a willingness to spread their faith with their peers. Time Commitment: LIFE TEEN is held weekly in the church hall with required Mass attendance from September through 16
Passing on the Faith May. Preparation time is occasionally needed and assisted by instruction materials provided in advance. Training: Attend preparation meetings and complete CORI training. LIFETEEN RETREAT TEAM Goal: To foster a transforming spiritual experience for our Confirmation Candidates enrolled in the LIFE TEEN program. Responsibilities: Actively participate in and lead various group activities throughout the weekend to enrich the faithfilled experience for our Candidates. Who: Lifeteen volunteers. Time Commitment: One weekend usually held in December or January with preparation required in advance Training: Attend preparation meetings and complete CORI training. RCIA (RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION) TEAM, TEEN Goal: To welcome and assist teens who have expressed an interest in receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation, but have not yet been Baptized and or received First Holy Communion. Responsibilities: Prepare for each session by reading and reflecting on the topic(s) of the week. Along with the program director, engage in conversation for the benefit of the candidates. Attend all RCIA sessions as well as the appropriate rites. Who: Teens who have a basic understanding of our faith, have good listening skills and a welcoming outlook. This person may be a Lifeteen Peer Minister, but not necessarily. Time Commitment: Preparation at home (short reading). Team orientation meeting. Attend weekly 60 minute sessions. Attend RCIA rites (between 2 and 6 per year). Attend the Easter Vigil. Training: Orientation with the RCIA director. 17
Passing on the Faith Adults RCIA (RITE OF CHRISTIAN INITIATION OF ADULTS) TEAM, ADULT Goal: To welcome and assist adults who have expressed an interest in receiving any or all of the Sacraments of Initiation. Responsibilities: Along with a team of catechists prepare for each session by reading and reflecting on the topic(s) of the week. Engage in conversation for the benefit of the candidates. Attend all RCIA sessions as well as the appropriate rites. Who: Adults who have a basic understanding of the Catechism and Scripture, have good listening skills and a welcoming outlook. Time Commitment: Preparation at home. Occasional team meetings. Attend weekly 90 minute sessions. Attend RCIA rites (between 2 and 6 per year). Attend the Easter Vigil. Training: Orientation with the RCIA director. RCIA TEAM, PARISH SPONSOR Goal: To welcome and assist adults who have expressed an interest in receiving any or all of the Sacraments of Initiation on their faith journey, help them feel at home in our parish. Responsibilities: Along with a team, engage in conversation for the benefit of the candidates. Attend all RCIA(Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) sessions as well as the appropriate rites. Parish Sponsors are not always chosen by the candidate to be their sacramental sponsor. Who: Adults who participate in the life of the parish and would enjoy introducing a new friend to the same. Have good listening skills and a welcoming outlook. Time Commitment: Attend weekly 90 minute sessions usually late Fall - Spring. Attend RCIA rites (between 2 and 6 per year). Attend the Easter Vigil. Training: Orientation with the RCIA director. 18
Passing on the Faith AWAKENING FAITH FACILITATOR Goal: Awakening Faith, Reconnecting with Your Catholic Faith, is a small group process that helps inactive Catholics return to the Church. The community becomes a bridge to the larger Church community. Responsibilities: Prepare for meeting. Encourage conversation and socializing. The conversations are based on short, easy to read essays about spirituality, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, God s mercy, the Mass, and the Church. Foster reflection, prayer, and honest sharing in a setting of hospitality and acceptance. Who: Adults who have a basic understanding of our faith and parish, have good listening skills and a welcoming outlook. Time Commitment: Preparation at home. Arrive 15 minutes before the meeting begins. Meetings are 90 minutes once a week for 6-8 weeks. Training: Training with the program director. SMALL GROUP FACILITATOR Goal: To provide a leadership catalyst for group discussions in various programs. Responsibilities: To become familiar with the subject(s) to be discussed in order to keep discussions focused and on-topic. The facilitator should encourage all members of the group to participate and stay engaged. Who: Any interested person who possesses the basic skills outlined above. Possess good active listening skills. Time Commitment: Dependent on the nature and scope of the program. Training: Familiarization with essence and message of the program. Facilitator training helpful but not essential. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. 19
Passing on the Faith BAPTISM PREPARATION TEAM Goal: Prepare parents and godparents to participate in the Rite of Baptism and live their vocation as first teachers of the faith to their children. Responsibilities: Become well versed in the joys and challenges of Catholic parenthood. Attend Baptism preparation meetings. Participate in / lead group discussions. Serve as a mentor for parents as they journey through Catholic parenthood. Who: Adults who understand Baptism as a lifelong commitment to growing in faith. Time Commitment: Preparation at home. Arrive 15 minutes before the meeting begins. As needed, typically, 1-2 times per month for 60-90 minutes. Follow up with families after Baptism. Training: Training is one-on-one with the director. PARISH LIBRARIAN Goal: To promote and administer a free lending library for our parish family. Responsibilities: Create library cards, check books back into circulation and keep books in order on shelving. Remind borrowers when books are overdue (usually via email). Who: Organized adult who has some basic computer skills. Time Commitment: Once every 1-2 weeks for 1-2 hours. Training: Brief orientation. 20
In Service of Parish and Community SOCIETY OF ST. VINCENT de PAUL Goal: Live the gospel message by service to the needy. Assist individuals and/or families whenever vital needs, such as food, shelter or other necessities of life are wanting. Responsibilities: Attend meetings. Conduct food drive, deliver food baskets, flowers, sort food. Work in conjunction with public agencies or other charitable organizations. Sometimes make home visits to prospective clients to evaluate need. Provide additional support to families at Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter. Who: Responsible Catholic adults who wish to serve. Time Commitment: Varies according to member s personal schedule and other commitments. Meetings are monthly. Training: Basic training (1-day workshop) required for all members. Attend related programs / activities from time to time whenever possible. CORI training required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. LADIES GUILD Goal: To promote spiritual growth and social activity as well as assist in various parish activities. Responsibilities: Individual members are encouraged to participate in a variety of activities, involving fund raising and service to others. In addition to officers, there are a number of various chair responsibilities. Among them are: Membership, Publicity, and Ways and Means. Who: Women parishioners with a desire to grow spiritually as well as contribute to the overall well-being of the parish community. Time Commitment: Attend monthly meetings, September through May. Commitment is based upon nature and level of activity. Training: Basic orientation depending upon nature and level of activity. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. 21
In Service of Parish and Community KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS Goal: To participate in charitable events and provide support to the community through its core principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Responsibilities: To support the activities of the parishes that they represent and to participate in various charitable activities utilizing the unique talents and abilities of individual members. Who: Active Catholic men who wish to serve God and the Church through a variety of charitable and spiritual activities. Time Commitment: Varies according to activities planned and the personal schedule of the individual member. Attend monthly meetings. Training: None. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. PARISH COMMUNITY OUTREACH Goal: To live the Gospel through parish wide service activities in the local and/or global community. Responsibilities: Participate in a variety of community service and community outreach endeavors. Who: Adult or mature teen who is willing to roll up their sleeves or give their time to an important cause. Time Commitment: Varies depending on the project or activity. Frequency is determined by the participant. Training: As needed, dependent on the service activity. WELCOME COMMITTEE Goal: To promote a welcoming environment for new or recent parishioners and to provide information about various ministries/organizations within the parish. 22
In Service of Parish and Community Responsibilities: Plan and coordinate social and/or informational programs for recent parishioners and answer various inquiries. Contact and welcome new parishioners. Who: Any parishioner who wishes to help the parish grow in faith, involvement and mission. Time Commitment: Varies depends on activities planned. Training: Attendance at organizational & planning meetings. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. PARISH COMPANION Goal: To reach out to members of our parish family who are no longer able to join us due to age or infirmity. Responsibilities: Provide companionship at the residence of the elder, through light social activities such as simple conversation, games, crafts, listening to music and prayer. Before each visit, call the elder to let them know you will be visiting. Who: Parishioners who enjoy the wisdom and friendship of elders. Time Commitment: Parish companions will attend two training sessions that will provide them with particular skills needed for this ministry. Visits are no more than 1 hour long, twice a month. Training: Attend 2 parish training sessions, which address elders, active listening and prayer. A CORI evaluation must also be complete. Contact: See insert at the back of this booklet. PARISH COMPANION PROGRAM COORDINATOR Goal: To facilitate companionship and community for our homebound parish elders. Responsibilities: Recruit and train friendly parishioners for visits with parish elders. Help facilitate training of Parish Companions. Interview interested elders and match them with a Parish Companion. 23
In Service of Parish and Community Who: St. Julie s parishioners who have a desire to assist and help others assist our elder community. Time Commitment: As needed. Training: Orientation required. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. PARISH NURSES Goal: To serve the community by focusing on the whole person to emphasize wellness, disease prevention and health promotion, including healthy spirituality. We work to improve the health of body, mind and spirit. Who: Registered Nurses who have completed the Faith Community Preparation Course, who along with other volunteer parish RN s, appreciate that all persons are sacred and must be treated with dignity and respect. Responsibilities: Be a friend, based in a faith community, who can be called on for help in health care related matters. There are many roles: integrator of faith and health, health educator, health counselor, referral advisor and health advocate. Time Commitment: Is variable depending on the needs of the parish community. WALKING GROUP LEADER Goal: To promote wellness, exercise and physical activity to everyone who would like companionship and develop friendships as they walk. Responsibilities: Lead a group of walkers along a gentle 2- mile stretch of Slocum Road. Who: A Parish Nurse or other person interested in the health and fitness of the parish community. Time commitment: Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 5 pm, weather permitting, from May through September. 24
In Service of Parish and Community PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY Goal: Our hands are God s hands. It is our hope that prayer shawls will bring comfort, peace, joy, and healing to those who receive them. Responsibilities: Part of the journey of prayer and faith is to recognize that we may never know how our love and care will touch or change another person s life. Through this shawl ministry we can learn to trust the truth that God works through all of us when we care for friends and strangers alike. Who: Members of this ministry are all who are interested. There is no training and members teach each other how to knit and crochet. Time Commitment: This ministry meets once a month, on the second Saturday of each month between 9 and 10 am, in the parish library. BEAD MINISTRY Goal: To make earrings that are provided to boost the spirits of cancer patients. Responsibilities: To meet once a month in parish library Who: Anyone interested. Time Commitment: 2 hours one day a month. Training: Basic instruction. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP LEADER/FACILITATOR Goal: To support and encourage people who care for the chronically ill and or aged. Responsibilities: To create a confidential space for sharing challenges and concerns. Who: Adults with well-developed active listening skills and knowledge of good self-care practices, as well as a good understanding of the role of and challenges to care givers. Time Commitment: Once a month group meeting and preparation. 25
In Service of Parish and Community Training: A background in the social services and or health care is helpful. BEREAVEMENT MINISTRY Goal: To support and encourage people who are experiencing loss and grief. Responsibilities: To create a confidential physical, emotional and spiritual space for sharing challenges and concerns associated with loss and grief. Who: Adult with well-developed active listening skills and knowledge of good self-care practices, as well as a good understanding of the process of grieving and its implications across the lifecycle. Time Commitment: Once or twice a month group meeting and preparation as needed. Training: A background in the social services and or bereavement counseling is appreciated. SEPTEMBERFEST VOLUNTEER Goal: Volunteer your time and talent to assist in the success of our annual parish fundraiser. Septemberfest promotes fellowship and community at large, while raising funds for the parish. Responsibilities: Varied There are a number of activities requiring a variety of talents and interests. Activities include raffles, children s games/crafts, set up and breakdown, food prep, yard sale, book sale, bake sale, Portuguese Bazaar, Country Auction and more. Who: Any responsible interested adult and teen. Time Commitment: Depends on activity and level of involvement. Training: Informal orientation based on activity. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. 26
In Service of Parish and Community SEPTEMBERFEST COMMITTEE MEMBER Goal: Oversee an activity at our annual parish fundraiser. Septemberfest promotes fellowship and community at large, while raising funds for the parish. Responsibilities: Oversee one activity, sharing your talents and interests. Activities may include raffles, children s games/crafts, set up and breakdown, food prep, yard sale, book sale, bake sale, Portuguese Bazaar, Country Auction and more. Attend planning meetings, purchase necessary items, seek and organize donated goods, set up and take down activity, and report financial results. Who: Any responsible interested adult who has volunteered at Septemberfest in the past and is familiar with the workings of the event. Time Commitment: Dependent on activity. Training: Past involvement at Septemberfest. Contact: See insert at back of this booklet. SEPTEMBERFEST CHAIRPERSON Goal: Plan, organize and oversee all aspects of our annual parish fundraiser. Septemberfest promotes fellowship and community at large, while raising funds for the parish. Responsibilities: Plan and market event, solicit committee members, lead monthly meetings, hire vendors, coordinate activity and volunteer needs, and problem solve any issues on day of event. Who: Any interested adult who good organizational skills. It is helpful, but not essential, to have Septemberfest Committee Member experience, or be familiar with the workings of the event. Time Commitment: Arrange and attend planning meetings from March-September. Be onsite the weekend of the event. Training: As needed. Hands on experience as a past Committee member or Co-Chair is a plus. 27
In Service of Parish and Community SEAFOOD SUPPER TEAM Goal: Provide an opportunity for the community to gather and enjoy good food and good company. Responsibilities: Assist at this event in any of several ways. Sell tickets, set up, breakdown, cook, serve or plan. Who: Adults and teens who enjoy working as a team. Time Commitment: Depends on how you have chosen to help. The one day event (usually held in September) is 2 hours long. Additional time needed for set up / clean up. Training: The event organizers will be happy to show you the ropes. FAMILY SUNDAY REFRESHMENT CREW Goal: To promote community and friendship within the parish. Responsibilities: Order donuts and prepare coffee for families attending the 9am Mass. Set up and clean up. Communicate table set up to Custodian. Who: Anyone who enjoys offering hospitality to others. Time commitment: Six Sunday mornings a year. October through April. MAINTENANCE HELPER Goal: Assist the parish by pitching in when an extra set of hands are needed. Responsibilities: Vary according to need. Helping with the set up and break down of events are but one example of the many ways to pitch in. Who: Adults and teens who enjoy working as a team and have the ability to do moderate lifting. Time Commitment: Variable. Dependent on your availability Training: None. 28
In Service of Parish and Community PARISH PHOTOGRAPHERS Goal: Capture the life and essence of the parish through photography. Responsibilities: Attend as many parish events as possible. (This responsibility will ideally be shared between two or more people.) Capture a variety of images and transmit them electronically to the parish webmaster. Who: Anyone with a good eye for photo composition and access to the equipment required to capture and transmit digital images. Time Commitment: As needed, and when available. Training: None. PARISH COUNCIL MEMBER Goal: Church Law requires all pastors to have a Parish Pastoral Council in place composed of parishioners and staff tasked with advising him. Responsibilities: The Pastoral Council advises the pastor on pastoral matters such as programming, spirituality, social, and service aspects of the parish. Who: The Parish Council is composed of three groups: Ex Officio (staff members), appointed Members, and those recommended by the congregation. All those interested should inform the pastor of his/her availability and willingness. Time Commitment: 4-6 meetings per year over a 1-2-year term. Subcommittee meetings/work as needed. Some outside reading may be required. Training: None required. 29
In Service of Parish and Community FINANCE COUNCIL MEMBER Goal: Assist the pastor and parish staff to assess, budget, plan and project the fiscal needs of the parish. Responsibilities: Evaluate the fiscal state of the parish and participate in conversations related to parish finances. Offer advice on acquisition of funds and good stewardship of parish assets. Who: At the invitation of the pastor. Parishioners with a background in finance/accounting or business. Time Commitment: Attend regular meetings. Participate in the actives of various subcommittees when the need arises. Training: As needed. 30
Our Parish Staff is ready and willing to assist you. Parish Staff contact information is listed on the insert found in this booklet. Our Mass Schedule can be found in our bulletin, parish website and Facebook page. Please visit our Parish Website www.saintjulies.org Friend us on Facebook www.facebook.com/stjuliebilliart We count on your support. Consider using E-giving as an alternative to budget envelopes to support your parish. www.saintjulies.org/e-giving Keep us up to date: Whenever an address, phone or email change in your household, please update your parish membership record. It s easy. Go to www.saintjulies.xyz or phone the parish office 508 993 2351. Welcome! 31