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Liturgical Ministry Manual
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Introduction
Thank you so much for volunteering as a Liturgical Minister at St. Gregory the
Great Catholic Church! Your participation is so important to the liturgical life
of our Parish.
Please spend some time becoming familiar with this manual so that you might
most effectively volunteer.
While you will not need to read the guidelines for all of the ministries, you are
responsible for reading and understanding the guidelines for the ministry or
ministries for which you volunteer. Furthermore, you must understand the
online monthly scheduler – Ministry Scheduler Pro.
God bless you for your generosity.
The Monthly Liturgical Schedule
The Liturgical Volunteer Schedule is posted in the Liturgical Ministry Room near
the bathrooms (Formerly the Usher’s Closet) on the bulletin board each month. It
may also be found online in Ministry Scheduler Pro, the Parish online scheduling
software system. You may access this schedule by signing into your account at: www.rotundasoftware.com/ministry/SGG To see your schedule, go to the My
Schedule tab and it will show you for which days you have been scheduled; next to
each assignment is a “request a sub” button in case you cannot make your assigned
date. The computer will find your sub for you. Around the 8th of every month, we
will send out an e-mail request for you to let us know about any "away dates" you
might have before the 15th of the month. Please note that your "away dates" should
be put in the "Unavailable dates/times" section of the scheduler and not in the
"Additional notes or comments." You may respond to the sender of the e-mail with
any urgent needs. Please do not write them in the "Additional notes or comments"
section.
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Table of Contents Introduction 1
Table of Contents 2
Prayer and Worship Committee 3
Liturgical Ministry Coordinators 4
Mass Coordinators 6
Altar Guild 7
Altar Servers 8
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion 9
Ministers of Holy Communion to the Homebound 16
Rite of Service – Distribution of Ashes 19
Special Procedures for Homebound EMs Serving Facilities 21
Flower Guild 22
Greeters 23
Lectors 25
Nursery Ministry 27
Sacristans 28
Ushers 29
Welcome Ministry 36
Appendix:
How to Use the Online Parish Scheduling System 38
Liturgical Minister Processing Protocols 43
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Prayer and Worship Committee Guidelines
The Prayer and Worship Committee of Saint Gregory the Great Catholic Church of Bluffton, South
Carolina exists to promote the full, active and conscious participation of the laity in prayer and worship in
accordance with the liturgical decrees, guidelines and customs of the Roman Catholic Church. The
committee is a consultative and "hands on" body which assists the pastor, clergy and staff in working
together to encourage the proper, dignified and beautiful celebration of the Church's liturgies and
devotions. It seeks the assistance of parishioners and others in successfully reaching its goals.
The committee will consist of the pastor, the pastoral associate, a deacon, the director of music, the
coordinators of the various liturgical ministries and other individuals invited to participate. Other people
may serve in an ad-hoc (as needed) capacity. The pastoral associate for the Parish chairs the committee.
The committee typically meets quarterly.
An agenda will be distributed to the committee members prior to each committee meeting. Committee
members wishing to include agenda items should submit them to the committee chair prior to the
publication of the meeting agenda if at all possible. All discussion during the meetings will be conducted
in a manner marked by Christian courtesy, love and respect. The consensus model will be the preferred
model for decision-making, understanding that all recommendations of the committee are of an advisory
nature to the pastor who has full and final decision-making authority.
This document will be subject to periodic review and revision by the Committee.
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Liturgical Ministry Coordinator Guidelines
Responsible to: Pastoral Associate
Mission The liturgical ministry coordinator for each liturgical ministry is responsible for the appropriate training,
coordination and problem-solving for the area of liturgical service for which they are responsible.
Vision The liturgical ministry coordinator works to ensure that their particular ministry is as effective as possible,
both recruiting and staying in touch with all volunteers to make sure that difficulties might be effectively
addressed and resolved when they arise.
Process
The liturgical ministry coordinators work with the pastoral associate to solve problems that arise in his or
her assigned ministry and recruit new volunteers for the ministry. They may assist with scheduling,
revising guidelines, or other areas as requested by the pastoral associate.
Recruitment
The liturgical ministry coordinator is at the forefront of recruitment for their ministry
He or she cooperates with the Parish Office in recruiting new Parishioners who might show an interest
in their ministry while signing up for Parish membership. Liturgical Ministry Coordinators should
contact these new Parishioners immediately (within one week) after receiving news of their interest.
These new Parishioners should be sent a copy of the Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheet if the particular
ministry’s volunteers are scheduled via Ministry Scheduler Pro, the Parish’s online scheduling system.
If they do not utilize Ministry Scheduler Pro, they do not need to make use of the Liturgical Ministry
Sign-Up Sheets.
It is best for liturgical ministry coordinators whose ministries use Ministry Scheduler Pro to have access
to copies of the Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheets so they can distribute them to potential volunteers
(to be found on the SGG website, in the Church vestibule as well as in the cabinet within the Liturgical
Ministry Room).
Training
For those ministries whose volunteers utilize Ministry Scheduler Pro:
a) Once a new volunteer’s Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheet has been cleared by the Parish Office, a
copy is conveyed to the liturgical ministry coordinator with a request to train the new volunteer.
b) Liturgical ministry coordinators should always arrange to meet with a new volunteer or a group of
new volunteers personally for training. (Note: Some long-time volunteers may not need personal
training if they simply add a ministry to their profile). It is insufficient to simply send out
guidelines to new volunteers. c) Once a new volunteer has been given training, the liturgical ministry coordinator conveys a copy
of the new volunteer’s Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheet to the Pastoral Associate with a note to
the effect that the volunteer is now trained and may be entered into Ministry Scheduler Pro – the
Parish’s online scheduling software.
For those ministries whose volunteers do not utilize Ministry Scheduler Pro:
a) Liturgical ministry coordinators should always arrange to meet with a new volunteer or a group of
new volunteers personally for training.
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b) Once a new volunteer has been given training, the new volunteer’s personal information should
be added to that ministry’s roster.
Once per year, all volunteers should be given refresher training to address issues that might have arisen
over the course of the past year.
Effective Communication
Liturgical ministry coordinators should be in communication with the people in the ministry that they
coordinate.
They should know all of the names of the people in their ministry and should know them by sight.
It should be a matter of course that e-mails and phone conversations regularly occur between Liturgical
Ministry Coordinators and the volunteers in their particular ministry.
Addressing and Resolving Difficulties
Many problems will be avoided through good ongoing communication.
When challenges do occur, the liturgical ministry coordinator should call the parties concerned to
attempt to resolve the difficulty.
If the difficulty cannot be easily resolved, the pastoral associate should be called for guidance. If, after
this, the difficulties still persist, the parish manager and perhaps even the pastor will be consulted.
The Liturgical Ministry Manual is a living document that will be revised from time to time to address
new issues as they occur.
Facilitating Volunteer Transitions
There are certain basic physical and health requirements for serving as a Liturgical Minister. Some
issues that might impede people from effectively volunteering would be: Mobility issues, confusion or
memory issues, inability to carry a chalice or ciborium, inability to place a host in a person’s mouth,
etc.
Typically, people are aware of when they can no longer volunteer in a certain capacity and they
transition out of the ministry or into another ministry that is better suited to their limitations.
Sometimes, people do not realize that their mobility or health limitations are becoming a real obstacle
to effectively volunteering as a Liturgical Minister in a certain role. In these circumstances, it is left to
the Parish Scheduling Coordinator in consultation with the pertinent Ministry Coordinator to
determine how to address the situation. Usually, it is best to meet with the volunteer to clarify and
hopefully resolve the situation.
If the Pastor indicates that a person should be removed from a certain Liturgical Ministry, the person’s
name should be removed immediately and the volunteer informed of the Pastor’s decision.
Coordinators for each liturgical ministry typically attend the Prayer and Worship Committee Meetings
held quarterly.
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Mass Coordinator Guidelines Responsible to: Coordinator of Mass Coordinators
Mission The Mass Coordinator makes sure that scheduled liturgical ministers and altar servers are present and, if
not, substitutes are recruited from within the congregation prior to the start of Mass.
Vision The Mass Coordinator is responsible for assuring that sufficient liturgical ministers are present to assist in
the celebration of weekend and feast day liturgies.
Process
The Mass Coordinator’s primary function is to assist the celebrant (priest) and/or deacon and the Parish
assembly (those who gather to celebrate) by enhancing the readiness of our Parish community to celebrate
liturgy, most notably, Sunday Mass and holy days of obligation. This minister serves "behind the scenes"
on Saturday evenings, Sunday mornings and Sunday evenings before each Mass to assure that the
appropriate ministers (Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Greeters, Ushers, Sacristans and Altar Servers) are
present, know their roles and are ready to serve. This minister is available to the celebrant to attend to any
special details or last minute preparations.
Regular tasks include the following:
Before the liturgy: Check that all liturgical ministers are present at least 15 minutes before Mass (including
communion ministers, altar servers and lectors) and understand their roles;
Find replacement ministers to serve if necessary;
Consult with the celebrant and/or deacon regarding special preparations (Baptism, for example).
Training will be provided to all new Mass Coordinators.
Are there any special requirements to serve?
Ministers may be of any age and either gender provided they have sufficient maturity and the ability to
perform and enjoy the required tasks. A capable minister is one who:
Desires to serve the community of faith and is willing and able to invest the time required to serve
in this capacity;
Can communicate and work well with others;
Able to lead and direct others;
Energetic, self-directed and able to solve problems;
Reliable, trustworthy, dedicated and able to follow through with commitments.
Able to arrive at church approximately 30 minutes before Mass
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Altar Guild Guidelines Responsible to: Flower Guild Coordinator, Laurie Niederer, 843-671-4406, [email protected]
Mission Altar Guild members are responsible for purifying and laundering the altar linens. Work is done at home,
at members’ own convenience, and training is provided.
Vision The Altar Guild is devoted to the care of the vestments, altar coverings and small linens used for Mass.
Process The Altar Guild consists of women and men devoted to the care of the worship environment at Saint
Gregory the Great Church. It assumes the responsibility for purifying and laundering the altar coverings
and small linens used for Mass. This is an ideal ministry for parishioners who cannot attend many
meetings but would like to contribute to the heart of parish life. Members select weeks which suit their
own schedules and sign up on a calendar posted in the sacristy. Individual training is provided, and all
work is done in the member’s home.
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Altar Server Guidelines Responsible to: Altar Server Coordinator
Mission The ministry of the Altar Server is to assist the priest on the altar while growing closer to God in one’s
own life.
Vision Through service on the Altar, servers help the congregation to better understand the Mass. Further through
the servers’ witness, they help to strengthen the community’s love for God.
Process
The Altar Servers are supervised and coordinated by an Associate Pastor or Deacon designated by the
Pastor.
Here are the guidelines for serving at SGG:
1. Please check the schedule each week to see if you are scheduled.
2. If you are scheduled and unable to serve, please find your replacement.
3. If you are not scheduled you are still welcome to serve if you would like.
4. Arrive and check in NO LATER than 15 minutes before Mass.
5. No distracting jewelry (ex: Long dangly earrings or bracelets).
6. Wear dark colored, close toed shoes. NO flip flops or straps they are a tripping hazard.
7. Long hair must be neatly tied back out of the face and off the shoulders. Long, unkept hair is a fire
hazard.
8. Boys must be clean-shaven.
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Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion Guidelines Responsible to: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and Homebound Coordinators
Mission The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (“EMHC”) is commissioned to assist the Pastor, priests,
and deacons in the orderly and reverent distribution of Holy Communion during the celebration of the
Holy Mass.
Vision The EMHC helps to ensure that a sufficient number of ministers exist for the distribution of Holy
Communion especially when offered under both species. By their participation in the Holy Mass, the
EMHC responds to his/her baptismal call to serve God’s people. A willingness to serve regularly, prepare
properly, arrive on time and dress appropriately further reflects the commitment to this call. The EMHC
recognizes the Body of Christ in those whom he/she offers the Eucharist. Ultimately, the EMHC acts as
the Body of Christ by fully participating in the sacramental life of the parish and the wider community.
Process
1.) Ministry Roles and Contact Information:
Parish Pastoral Associate: Dr. Chris Gustafson, 843.815.3100 ext. 327; [email protected]
Ministry Coordinator(s): Patricia and Gary Boylan, 941.204.7837; [email protected]
2.) Eligibility, Ministry Requirements and Restrictions:
The requirements for an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion are:
Must be fully initiated in the Catholic Faith, in good standing with the teachings of the Church,
and able to receive the Eucharist.
Must be of sufficient age (18 years) and maturity to perform the duties of EMHC at Mass.
Must be a registered member of SGG.
Must be willing to attend annual “Training and Reflection Sessions”.
The EMHC is to assist only at the Holy Mass. The EMHC should not take Holy Communion to a
family member, neighbor or friend, without completing the “Safe Environment Training and
Screening” program required by the diocese and the “Training for Homebound Ministers” required
by the Parish.
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3.) Scheduling and Communication with Parish Management and Ministry Coordinator(s):
St. Gregory the Great uses an automated system to generate a liturgical ministry schedule and
electronic mail to communicate with volunteers. You are expected to use the system to maintain
your availability and request a substitute for an assignment. .
If you will not be able to fulfill your schedule due to a last minute conflict, please call the Mass
Coordinator assigned to the Mass. This will enable the Mass Coordinator to begin recruiting a
substitute immediately.
An EMHC should not perform another ministry during the same Mass unless an emergency
situation arises.
Volunteer Sign-up Sheets are used to schedule EMHC’s for Holy Day Masses. You will be
notified by email when the sign-up sheets will be placed in the Holy Day Mass Book.
Please direct any questions regarding the use of the system, your schedule, or this procedure to the
Parish Pastoral Associate (see paragraph 1).
4.) Proper Attire for Holy Mass:
Gentlemen should wear long pants, collared shirt and a jacket (tie is optional). Dress shoes – no
sneakers.
Ladies should wear modest clothing and comfortable shoes, but no sneakers.
Less formal attire is acceptable for serving at weekday or Saturday morning Mass. Good
judgement is the best rule of thumb. It is strongly recommended that the EMHC refrain from
wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip flops etc.
At all times, refrain from using strong cologne, perfume or aftershave as some recipients of Holy
Communion have sensitivities to scents, and because these fragrances can remain on one’s hands
and actually be transferred to the Eucharist.
5.) Checking In and Choosing a Communion Station:
Please arrive at the church no later than twenty (20) minutes prior to the start of the Mass. This
will allow sufficient time for you to check-in and properly prepare yourself to participate fully in
the celebration of Holy Mass.
You are encouraged to check-in with the Mass Coordinator even if you are not scheduled in case
the Mass Coordinator needs to cover a position not filled by a scheduled minister.
Sign-in on the ministry attendance sheet and sign-in to your preferred Communion Station. Please
be certain you are sure of the locations for that Communion Station both in the Sanctuary and on
the church floor.
Please do not sign-in in advance of arriving at the Church for the Mass at which you are scheduled
to serve.
Proceed to the restroom and wash your hands with soap.
Take a seat on the same side of the church as the Communion Station chosen. Even numbered
stations (H2, H6, C2, C4 and C6) are located on the Sacred Heart of Jesus side of the church.
Odd-numbered stations are on the Blessed Mother side.
Please sit within the first five pews on the side aisle (but not in the very first pew which is reserved
for the mobility-challenged.)
Please sit at the end of the pew on the side aisle so that you may approach the Sanctuary without
disturbing those seated nearby.
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6.) During the Mass:
EMHCs are called, as is the entire assembly, to a fully conscious and active participation in the
Eucharistic celebration.
EMHCs are models for the ritual behavior of the assembly, and as such, should make all the ritual
gestures with strength and reverence and make all verbal and sung ritual responses with faith and
enthusiasm.
7.) Approaching the Altar:
At the “Lamb of God”, please come forward and stand at the foot of the stairs near the side aisles.
Host ministers must use the hand sanitizer located on the wall on each side of the Sanctuary. Cup
ministers are welcome to use the sanitizer, especially if you have been blowing your nose or
coughing.
If you are seated on the opposite side of the Church from your Communion Station, walk toward
the center aisle. Reverence the altar when you reach the center and proceed to the side stairs. Do
not ascend into the Sanctuary from the wrong side and then try to cross over.
When the priest has concluded his Communion, immediately ascend the stairs and take your
designated position.
Please stand closely together. Allow the altar servers room to stand between position C3 and
position H5 and C4 and H6.
The celebrant will distribute The Body of Christ to all EMHCs and altar servers.
The Deacon, when present, will distribute the cups filled with The Precious Blood. The first CM
on each side to receive the Precious Blood will keep the cup and then distribute the Precious Blood
to those standing to their right and left.
Please remember that when you receive communion, it does not matter which species you receive
first. Even if you (or anyone else) receive only one sacred species, you are still receiving the
fullness of Christ – body and blood, soul and divinity – in His entirety.
Ministers taking communion to the back of the church should descend the center stairs and
proceed down the center aisle to the communion stations, as soon as all ministers serving the back
of the church (H5, H6, C5, C6) have been given their vessels. Do not delay this procession by
waiting to receive the Precious Blood.
Everyone else should remain in position until the Priest and Deacon leave the Sanctuary to take
their positions at the center aisle. At that time use the side steps with handrails to proceed to your
assigned station. Do not grab the handrail with the purificator. Do not descend the center stairs.
If the narthex has many people, the host minister assigned to station H6 should proceed through
the center doors into the narthex and distribute Holy Communion. The host minister assigned to
station H5 will distribute Holy Communion alternating the left and right sides until the H6
minister returns.
The Precious Blood is never distributed in the narthex.
8.) Distribution of the Body of Christ:
The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has stated “The proper and only permissible form for
distributing Holy Communion is to offer the consecrated bread by saying, “The Body of Christ”
and to offer the consecrated wine by saying, “The Blood of Christ”. No other words or names
should be added; and the formula should not be edited in any way. (Cf. GIRM, 161;284-287)
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9.) Distribution of Holy Communion to the Mobility Challenged:
The first row is reserved for the mobility challenged.
Positions H3 and C3 on the Blessed Mother side and positions H2 and C4 on the Sacred Heart of
Jesus side serve this row.
After leaving the Sanctuary by the side stairs, proceed to the center aisle and begin to serve those
seated in the first row.
Proceed from the center aisle toward the side aisle.
When Holy Communion has been distributed to those in the mobility challenged row, take your
position and begin distribution to the rest of the congregation.
10.) Procedures Specific to Host Ministers:
The EMHC reverently holds up the consecrated Host, and while making eye contact with the
receiver says “The Body of Christ”. The communicant responds “Amen”. These are the only
words to be used. Nothing is to be added or subtracted, not even a name. Then the Host is placed
in the hand or on the tongue according to the manner indicated by the communicant.
If a person comes forward carrying a child and extends only one hand, you should quietly explain
that they should receive the Host directly on the tongue.
If a Host is dropped, simply reach down, pick the Host up and consume it.
When someone comes forward with their hands crossed over their heart, they are indicating they
want a blessing. The EMHC should keep both hands on the Paten (dish), look into the person’s
eyes, and say: “May God Bless you”. Do not raise your hand, make the sign of the cross or touch
the person in any way. This might be offensive to the person, and could be a health hazard.
Remember that only an ordained minister (Priest or Deacon) may actually bless another person.
If your Paten becomes empty of Hosts and there are still a good number of people coming forward,
please go to the nearest EMHC and carefully take some Hosts from him or her. Please do not
automatically return your Paten to the credence table when your assistance is still needed.
Do not break hosts unless specifically directed to do so by a Priest or Deacon.
When everyone has receive Holy Communion, and your vessel is not empty, return it to the
deacon or priest, or place it on the altar, and return to your seat.
If your Paten is empty, return it to the deacon or priest, or place it on the credence table, and return
to your seat.
Those serving the back of the church will return their vessels to the Priest or Deacon via the center
aisle, behind those who may be moving forward to receive.
Do not distribute Holy Communion to a pyx. An EMHC to the Homebound must obtain the Holy
Communion after Mass from a Deacon or Priest, and then proceed directly to their homebound
assignment.
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11.) Procedures Specific to Cup Ministers:
The EMHC presents the cup of Precious Blood, and while making eye contact with the receiver
says: “The Blood of Christ”. The communicant responds “Amen”. These are the only words to be
used. Nothing is to be added or subtracted, not even a name.
The EMHC then offers the cup to the communicant who holds the cup firmly in two hands and
drinks from it.
The EMHC should be sure the recipient has a good grip on the cup before releasing it. Be extra
vigilant when the communicant is a child.
Be careful when the recipient hands the cup back. The exchange should be firm, but not in a way
to cause a splash or spill.
After each communicant receives from the cup, use the fully opened purificator to wipe both the
inside and outside of the cup’s rim. Turn the cup one-quarter turn after wiping the rim. These
actions are a matter of both reverence and hygiene.
The EMHC should be careful not to wipe in a manner that allows the purificator to dip into the
Precious Blood.
Intinction (the dipping of the Host into the cup) is never permitted. If you see someone
approaching the cup while still holding the Host, cover the cup and in a softly spoken voice gently
ask the communicant to consume the Host before taking the cup.
When the communion line at your station has ended, return the Cup and folded purificator to tray
on the credence table located at the side of the Sanctuary at which you are stationed, and return to
your seat.
If the cup is not empty, consume the remaining Precious Blood at the credence table with your
back to the congregation. Do not consume the remaining Precious Blood at your station.
If you cannot consume the remaining Precious Blood, offer it to one of the other ministers.
If there another minister is not available, place the cup on the tray and place the folded purificator
over the cup.
Please remember to place your cup on the back edge of the wooden tray or table. Doing so leaves
space for the next minister to return their vessel.
Please place the purificator (folded up) on the tray, not on the cup or in the cup (except as noted
above).
If the Precious Blood is spilled, please use the purificator to wipe it up IMMEDIATELY. Be
thorough. Cover the cup with your hand to indicate your station is closed. Stand near the covered
spill in a way that will detour anyone else from walking in or near the spot.
After everyone has received Holy Communion, notify the Priest or Deacon, and take another
purificator (dampened with some water) and go back to wipe up the floor again. Never use paper
towels for such spills or cleaning.
If a communicant spills the Precious Blood on himself, offer the purificator so that the
communicant may blot the Precious Blood from his clothing.
Above all, remain calm when an accident occurs. In charity and with compassion, re-assure the
communicant involved, and act with confidence and reverence in cleaning up the spill.
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The following paragraphs contain additional information taken from “Celebrating the Communion Rite”
by Todd Williamson & Jennifer Kerr Breedlove, Rite, Volume 38, Number 3.
RECEIVING AND OFFERING THE CUP
When the priest or the deacon offers the cup, the extraordinary minister responds, “Amen,” receives
the cup, and drinks from it. This is a profound act of faith. The document of the United States Conference
of Catholic Bishops, Norms for the Distribution and Reception of Holy Communion Under Both Kinds in
the Dioceses of the United States, notes that “the communicant’s ‘Amen’ is a profession in the presence of
the saving Christ, body and blood, soul and divinity, who now gives life to the believer” (#15). After
receiving from the cup, the extraordinary minister wipes the rim of the cup with the purificator, and, with
the cup, proceeds to the assigned station. Be sure to leave enough space between the stations where the
body of Christ and the blood of Christ are received. This will help alleviate any back up of
communicants, where those waiting to receive from the cup are blocking those who have yet to receive
the body of Christ.
Extraordinary ministers of the cup noticing that the procession has slowed because of communicants
waiting for the cup should move back a step or two to make more room. In offering the cup, be sure to
hand it completely to the communicant. If the communicant wavers, or seems unsure of whether to
receive the cup, an extraordinary minister could give some gentle direction. (Note- this includes children.
If they have received First Communion, they have been trained to take the cup. Do NOT hold it for them.)
Remember that not all communicants will drink from the cup. Extraordinary ministers should not give the
impression that all should receive from the cup. The extraordinary minister is a servant (in imitation of
Christ, remember) who responds to the needs of others. No judgment is made on those who do not receive
from the cup. The Church always has understood that Christ is completely and totally received in either of
the consecrated species alone.
WIPING THE CUP
After reaching the assigned place, the extraordinary minister should unfold the purificator. This
will allow full use of the cloth. (Note that the purificator is, indeed, a cloth.) Purificators that are
made of anything other than cloth are not permitted. (There are no disposable purificators.)
After a communicant has drunk from the cup and returned it to the extraordinary minister, the
rim is wiped with the purificator, inside and out. The cup is turned a quarter turn before offered to
the next communicant. The purificator should be turned in the hand each time as well, so that a
clean area is used after each communicant has drunk.
If some of the Precious Blood should spill out of the cup, the area where the spill occurred should be
washed with water and the water poured into the sacrarium (see GIRM, #280). Extraordinary ministers of
Holy Communion should be well- acquainted with the procedure in their parish for when this happens or
for when a piece of the consecrated bread is dropped. (Extraordinary ministers should immediately pick
up and consume dropped hosts.) By knowing the procedure beforehand, the extraordinary minister can
respond with a calm reverence.
SeIf-intinction, where a person receives the consecrated bread but instead of consuming it immediately
approaches the Precious Blood and dips, or intincts, it into the cup, is not permitted (cf. Redemptionis
Sacramentum, #104). To avoid confusion, be sure that the whole parish is aware of this.
After the Communion procession has ended, the extraordinary minister should place the cup on the
credence table. Any remaining Precious Blood must be consumed. Extraordinary ministers may drink the
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remaining blood with permission of the diocesan bishop. If an extraordinary minister cannot consume
what remains of the Precious Blood, assistance of other extraordinary ministers, the priest, or deacon
should be requested. Purificators should be refolded and placed on the credence table for later washing.
Avoid stuffing the purificator into the empty cup.
PURIFICATION
In October 2006, the Holy See did not renew the temporary indult given to the bishops of the United
States to allow extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion to assist in purifying the sacred vessels. This
indult had been given in 2002 for three years. Since the indult was not extended, extraordinary ministers
of Holy Communion may not purify cups and other Communion vessels. Extraordinary ministers should
be sure of the practice of their parish concerning the placement of the Communion vessels for
purification. They should also be aware of any practice regarding the further washing of communion
vessels after they have been purified. The indult cited above only concerns the ritual act of purification of
the vessels. It does not affect the custom by which many parishes wash the vessels with soap and water
after Mass.
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Ministers of Holy Communion to the Homebound Guidelines
Responsible to: Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion and Homebound Coordinator
Mission The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion to the Homebound (“Homebound EM”) is
commissioned to assist the Pastor, priests and deacons in the ministry to the sick.
Vision The Homebound EM helps to ensure that all Catholics within the boundaries of our Parish will continue to
be included in the sacramental life of the Parish, even when they cannot physically participate with the
Parish. The Homebound EM will “go forth” from the celebration of the Mass, carrying the Eucharist to
those who cannot participate in that celebration with the parish. The Homebound EM is a bridge between
the Parish and the homebound, bringing “communion” in several ways: sharing time, the bulletin, and
news of the parish community, the Word of God, and the Eucharist.
Process
Ministry Roles and Contact Information:
Parish Pastoral Associate: Dr. Chris Gustafson, 843.815.3100 ext. 327; [email protected]
Parish Receptionist: Mrs. Alice Lee, 843.815.3100; [email protected]
Executive Assistant: Mrs. Marsha Williams, 843.815.3100 ext. 328; [email protected]
Ministry Coordinator(s): Patricia and Gary Boylan, 941.204.7837; [email protected]
After Hours Sacramental Emergency Contact: 843.757.5558
Eligibility, Ministry Requirements and Restrictions:
The requirements for Homebound EM are:
Must be fully initiated in the Catholic Faith, in good standing with the teachings of the Church,
and able to receive the Eucharist.
Must be of sufficient age (18 years) and maturity to perform the duties of EM to the Homebound.
Must be a registered member of SGG.
Must be willing to attend annual “Training and Reflection Sessions”.
Must complete the “Safe Environment Training and Screening” program required by the diocese
and the “Training for Homebound Ministers” required by the Parish.
Family members of a homebound parishioner may be trained specifically to bring the Eucharist to
a homebound loved one on a weekly basis.
The Parish will provide a name tag which is to be worn when obtaining the Eucharist, and when
visiting a homebound person.
The Parish will provide a pyx, burse, copy of the “Communion of the Sick” booklet and “The
Catholic Handbook for Visiting the Sick and Homebound”. These tools are for use while engaged
in this ministry and should be returned to the office when service to the ministry is terminated.
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Scheduling and Communication with Parish Management and Ministry Coordinator(s):
Requests for a Homebound EM are made by the parishioner or his/her family to the Parish Office
or Ministry Coordinator(s) (see paragraph 1).
The assignment of a particular Homebound EM to a request, is made by the Ministry
Coordinator(s).
Detailed records are maintained by the Parish and Ministry Coordinator regarding requests and
assignments.
Please remember that this ministry is one of the Parish at large and not a personal or private
ministry. If a Homebound EM is asked to bring Holy Communion to a friend or neighbor, that
request should still be processed through the Parish Office.
Once assigned, the Homebound EM is expected to make scheduling arrangements with the
homebound person. Visits must be scheduled around Mass times.
If you need a substitute or replacement for your assignment, please contact the Ministry
Coordinator(s) who will then assign an alternate approved Homebound EM.
Advise the Ministry Coordinator(s) when an assignment is completed.
Obtaining the Eucharist for a Scheduled Homebound Visit:
The Eucharist may be obtained after any week day or Sunday Mass.
The Homebound EM will obtain the Eucharist from a Deacon or Priest at the Tabernacle after
Mass.
The Eucharist must be carried in a pyx, the pyx must be secured in a burse, and the burse must be
worn around the neck.
The Homebound EM must go directly to the homebound assignment immediately after obtaining
the Eucharist. It is never permissible to keep the Eucharist at home or to stop along the way.
No Homebound EM may open or take the Eucharist from the Tabernacle.
Remember that you are carrying the Real Presence: body and blood, soul and divinity of our Lord,
Jesus Christ.
The Visit:
Dress appropriately and arrive at the agreed upon time.
If possible, wash your hands after arrival. Carry and use a hand sanitizer if access to soap and
water is not possible.
Always provide a warm, prayerful atmosphere. You may use a small white cloth and crucifix to
create a place for the pyx and a focus for the liturgical celebration.
Follow the instructions in the “Communion of the Sick” booklet or “The Catholic Handbook for
Visiting the Sick and Homebound” and lead the homebound person in the Communion Rite.
If you are visiting homebound persons in residence at one of the local facilities, you will be given
a list of Catholics who have asked to receive Holy Communion. Give Holy Communion to those
persons only.
The Homebound EM will immediately consume all Hosts not distributed during the visit.
If you are unable to consume a host previously placed in the communicant’s mouth, wrap it
carefully in a tissue. As soon as possible, dissolve the host in water. Carefully pour the dissolved
host and water into the ground, in an area not frequently travelled. Next, rinse the container used
to dissolve the host, and pour that water into the ground as well. Never pour the dissolved host or
rinse water into a drain.
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Requesting a priest:
The Homebound EM may be asked to arrange for a priest to visit the homebound parishioner.
If there is no sacramental emergency, please email the Executive Assistant. Include the
parishioner’s name, address and phone number, and any other information that will be helpful to
the priest (i.e., can’t swallow, wants confession, under hospice care).
If a sacramental emergency exists call the Parish Office or the Sacramental Emergency Number if
after office hours.
Ash Wednesday:
The Homebound EM may bring ashes to homebound parishioners.
Notify the Ministry Coordinator(s) if you will be making a visit on Ash Wednesday, so that
blessed ashes can be packaged for your visit
Use the Liturgy included here (next section).
Any remaining blessed ashes may be buried in the ground in an area not travelled.
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Rite of Service – Distribution of Ashes
Introductory Rite
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
R. Amen.
Praised be the God of grace, mercy, and peace. Blessed be God forever.
R. Blessed be God forever.
My brothers and sisters, the hour of God’s favor draws near,
The day of his mercy and of our salvation approaches,
When death was destroyed and eternal life began.
As we begin this season of Lent,
We gather today to acknowledge that we are sinners.
As we express our sorrow,
May God be merciful to us and restore us to his friendship.
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Father in heaven,
The light of your truth bestows sight to the darkness of sinful eyes.
May this season of repentance bring us the blessing of your forgiveness and the gift of your light.
Grant this through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
Liturgy of the Word
A reading from the Book of Daniel
Daniel turned to the Lord God, pleading in earnest prayer,
With fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.
O Lord, we are shamefaced, like our kings, our princes, and our fathers, for having sinned against you.
But yours, O Lord, our God, are compassion and forgiveness!
The Word of the Lord.
R. Thanks be to God.
Distribution of Ashes
Remember, you are dust and to dust you will return.
Intercessions
Our merciful Father does not desire the death of sinners but rather that they should turn from their sins
and have life.
Let us pray that we who are sorry for our sins may fear no future evil and sin no more.
- By human weakness we have disfigured the holiness of the Church: pardon all our sins and restore us to
full communion with our brothers and sisters.
We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord hear our prayer.
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- Grant the forgiveness of sins and the gift of new life to those who will be baptized this Easter.
We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord hear our prayer.
- Your mercy is our hope: welcome us to the sacrament of reconciliation.
We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord hear our prayer.
- Give us the will to change our lives, and the lives of others, by charity, good example, and prayer.
We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord hear our prayer.
- Make us a living sign of your love for all to see: people reconciled with you and each other.
We pray to the Lord.
R. Lord hear our prayer.
Lord’s Prayer
Now, in obedience to Christ himself, let us join in prayer to the Father, asking him to forgive us as we
forgive others.
All: Our Father…
Let us pray
Father, our source of life, you know our weakness.
May we reach out with joy to grasp your hand and to walk more readily in your ways.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
Closing Prayer
May the Father bless us, for he has adopted us as his children.
R/. Amen.
May the Son come to help us, for he has received us as brothers and sisters.
R/. Amen.
May the Spirit be with us, for he has made us his dwelling place.
R/. Amen.
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil, and bring us to everlasting life.
R/. Amen.
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Special Procedures for Homebound EMs Serving Facilities
There are several health care and assisted/independent living facilities within our Parish borders. Because of the
long term commitment required, these facilities are best served by Teams.
Teams of 6 to 8 Homebound EMs provide consistent resources of various gifts. This is a tremendous benefit to
the residents. As visits to facilities are on-going, the team concept does not burden 1 or 2 individuals, and
provides the opportunity for many to serve.
Team Organization:
A Team Coordinator will be designated for each team serving a facility.
The number of Homebound EMs serving a given facility will vary by the frequency with which the members are
available to serve. For example, if each member is available to serve once per month, a total of 8 team members
is required.
The Team Coordinator will prepare a bi-monthly schedule, maintain the list of Catholic residents and ensure that
all team members adhere to the procedures specific to the facility as well as the Parish guidelines for Homebound
EMs.
The Team Coordinator works with the Ministry Coordinator to resolve any and all issues.
Schedules:
Facilities are served at a specific day and time each week, which has been agreed upon by the facility
Management and the Ministry Coordinator.
Team members are scheduled in pairs for each visit. One member is designated as the EM and is responsible for
obtaining the Eucharist after the appropriate Mass.
Team members must work with the Team Coordinator when a substitute is required. Substitutes may be made
from the Team Roster for the specific facility only.
The Visit:
Team members should arrive at the facility at the scheduled time, together.
St. Gregory the Great ID badges must be worn while in the facility.
Adhere to procedures specific to the facility (i.e., entering the facility, signing in, security codes).
The Communion Prayer Service:
A list of Catholic residents will be maintained by the Team Coordinator. Holy Communion may be distributed to
those residents only.
Facility management will make available an appropriate space for conducting the Communion Prayer Service.
Residents without mobility issues will come to the location at the designated time.
Those with mobility issues will be assisted by facility staff.
Set a prayer table with a white cloth, crucifix, and pyx. Do not use candles with an open flame.
Follow the procedures for “Communion in Ordinary Circumstances” in the Communion of the Sick booklet.
Read the day’s Gospel.
The two-person team should equally participate in the Liturgy.
Communication:
One member of the team will send an email to the Team Coordinator, the other team members and the Ministry
Coordinator regarding the visit. Identify the residents that attended, new Catholic residents, issues etc.
Above all, remember that we serve at the invitation of the facility’s Management. We must always be careful to
not become involved in facility “politics”, side with residents against management, etc
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Flower Guild Guidelines
Responsible to: Flower Guild Coordinator, Laurie Niederer, 843-671-4406, [email protected]
Mission The Flower Guild is composed of men and women who arrange and maintain flowers for weekly liturgies
and the major feasts of Christmas and Easter. Meetings are limited, assignments are at members’
convenience, and new volunteers train by working with experienced members.
Vision The Flower Guild vision is to provide a beautiful worship environment for the celebration of liturgy
throughout the seasons of the church year and for special feast days.
Process The Flower Guild is responsible for the altar flowers for the weekend liturgies, outdoor plants and holiday
décor for the parish. Work is performed in keeping with the Church’s documents which provide principles
for those preparing the liturgical space. Professional floral design experience is not required. Volunteers
participate on a weekly basis either by arranging fresh flowers, watering and maintaining those
arrangements, or by caring for the outdoor container plantings. All work together to prepare the church for
the major feasts of the church year. The group meets three or four times a year for planning purposes and
uses e-mail/phone for routine scheduling.
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Greeter Guidelines
Responsible to: Greeter Coordinator(s)
Mission St. Gregory the Great Greeters are responsible for giving a warm and friendly greeting when handing out
the weekly bulletin to all parishioners and visitors, ensuring that the hymnals in the pews are clutter-free
and arranged in an orderly manner, and ensuring that the rest rooms are orderly following Mass. We do
these things according to our greeter team process described below.
Vision The Greeter team encourages St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church membership growth and retention.
Process
Staffing: There are three greeters at each scheduled Mass.
Responsibilities:
Before Mass:
Greeters #1, #2 and #3 All greeters are asked to please be in the Narthex 30 minutes before Mass begins, to coordinate
duties. Dress is “Sunday Best” (jacket for men, tie optional).
Sign in with the Liturgical Minister Coordinator book, which is located either in the Sacrament of
Reconciliation Room, (St. Helena Room, next to the Sacristy), or on the narthex credenza on the right
as you enter the church.
All greeters should make eye contact and extend a warm welcome to everyone arriving at Mass while
looking for:
Visitors or those unfamiliar with our parish: Tell them about the Welcome Ministry table on the
entryway porch following Mass.
Visitors needing special gluten free hosts: Take them to the serving Deacon at the Mass who can
arrange for their special need.
Special needs persons (e.g. wheelchairs, walkers): Notify an usher.
Families needing the nursery: The nursery is located through the door to the right of the altar in
the first room on the right, and operates during the 11:00 A.M. and 1:00 p.m. Masses.
Greeter #1 Identifies and invites two (2) parishioners to be gift bearers who bring up the offertory gifts. A family
of more than two persons is fine as well. Please be sure the people asked are dressed appropriately, (no
shorts or leisure attire), and avoid choosing the same people week after week. Ask them to come to the
narthex, (the church entryway that is through the glass doors at the rear of the church), as soon as the
congregation begins the Creed and before the Intercessions begin. Hands out bulletins making eye contact and offering a warm welcome to all after selecting the
offertory gift bearers.
Greeters #2 & #3
Hand out a copy of the bulletin, making eye contact and offering a warm welcome to each person
arriving at the church.
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During Mass:
Greeters #1, #2, & #3
Sit in the reserved seating section at the left rear of the church, last pew, center aisle.
Greeter #1
Be in the narthex at the appropriate time to make sure those chosen to bear the gifts are in place at the
rear of the church in the center aisle. They process in front of the ushers, and are to start up the center
aisle as soon as the intercessions have been completed and the Priest is standing at the alter steps. If
they do not come to the back of the church when the Creed is being recited, greeters will replace them.
After Mass:
Greeters #1, #2, & #3
Open the center glass doors when Father is midway down the center aisle, place the door stops and
open the left and right aisle side doors.
Stand in the Narthex, making themselves available to answer any questions, and pointing people to the
Welcome Ministry table on the church portico while giving the people a “have good day” farewell.
Go through the pews after Mass to:
Raise kneelers that have been left down.
Make sure that there are two hymnals, (placed vertically, binder on the left side), in each book
holder, bi-lingual Mass guides placed vertically behind the hymnals.
Pick up any bulletins and miscellaneous items left in pews. Items are placed in the Lost and Found
drawer of the credenza on the right side of the narthex as you enter the church, across from the
Liturgical Ministry Room. All trash is to be placed in the Liturgical Ministry Room trash
receptacle.
Wipe up excess water from the counters in the Women’s and Men’s Restrooms and pick up any
paper products on the floor.(Plastic gloves are located in the credenza located closest to the rest
rooms).
SPECIAL MASSES At times you may be asked to sign up and volunteer for “Special” masses, (Holy Week, First Communion,
Holy Days etc. etc.). If you volunteer to serve, please follow the regular “Greeter” Protocol but in
addition, after signing in, try to find out from a Deacon or Mass Coordinator if there are any special
requirements for that particular Mass. For example, Gift Bearers may not be required or special programs
/ worship aids may need to be handed out.
SCHEDULING A schedule of ministry assignments is published monthly through the Ministry Scheduler via email and it
is also available on the website. It is your responsibility to find a substitute so your duties will be covered.
Please do not ask anyone in the office to find a substitute for you. A list of current greeters will also be
found in the Ministry Scheduler online. The Parish volunteer Coordinator will send an email to you
monthly reminding you to put your unavailable dates into the Ministry Scheduler.
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Lector Guidelines Responsible to: The Lector Coordinator
Mission
As Ministers of the Word at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church we can strengthen the faith of
believers and enable them to spread the Word of God.
Vision
The Word of God has been entrusted to us and we are called to share His Word.
Process
The Word of God has been entrusted to us. By our Baptism we are called to share this Word with others
at home, at work, in our neighborhoods and in every place we can. THE WORD PROCLAIMED IS
POWERFUL. As Ministers of the Word at St. Gregory the Great Catholic Church, we can strengthen the
faith of believers and enable them to spread the Word of God more effectively wherever they live, work
and play.
PRAYER and PREPARATION will enable each of us to proclaim God’s Word to the best of our ability.
If your PREPARATION has been substantial then your posture, eye contact, breath control, voice
projection, clear pronunciation and the search for meaning will already be done. The fruit of the word and
prayer will be the clear proclamation of the Word of God. Let go and let God!”
Lectors should arrive at least 15 minutes before Mass begins, dressed appropriately for the Eucharistic
Banquet of our Lord (tee shirts, tank tops, or the like are not acceptable for any age Lector). Sign in with
the Mass Coordinator in the St. Helena Room (or, at the 5 pm Mass, at the sideboard outside the Usher’s
closet). If you are not scheduled to read, you can let the Mass Coordinator know you are present in case a
substitute is needed.
Please be seated in one of the first five rows (not the very first row as this is for the disabled) on the LEFT
side of the church. PLEASE DO NOT SIT ON THE CENTER AISLE.
At the EXACT scheduled Mass time, Lector #1 will go to the Ambo and read the announcements
(CHECK THE ANNOUNCEMENTS AHEAD OF TIME).
Approach the altar for the 1st reading as the priest sits down after the prayer. Bow to the tabernacle at the
foot of the side stairs before ascending. Adjust the microphone so that you will be speaking directly in to
it (Please see the video instruction on the Parish website page for Lectors). PROJECT YOUR VOICE.
What may seem loud to you is not always so to the people in the rear of the church or in the vestibule. If
you think your voice is not being heard, it probably isn’t. SPEAK LOUDLY AND DIRECTLY INTO
THE MICROPHONE (Your mouth should be about 4 inches from the front of the microphone).
When you have completed your reading, turn, face the tabernacle and give a reverent bow. If you are not
doing the 2nd
reading, turn, go down the stairs, and return to your seat. Do not reverence a second time
when you get to the foot of the stairs.
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If you are doing both readings, but not the Psalm, after you reverence, take a seat next to the altar servers
(on the ambo side of the altar).
If you are doing the 2nd
reading, follow steps 3 & 4 above. When you are finished, if the Deacon has
processed in with the Book of the Gospels (gold book that he places in the center of the altar), CLOSE
THE LECTIONARY AND PLACE IT UNDERNEATH on the top shelf of the ambo. If you have moved
the microphone down, you may want to move it back up first so that you do not knock into it with the
Lectionary and make a loud noise. Once you have placed the Lectionary on the shelf, turn, reverence the
tabernacle and return to your seat.
Any questions please call: Gerry Kelly, Coordinator of Lectors 757-7772 or e-mail [email protected].
“Servers, lectors commentators, and members of the choir also exercise a genuine liturgical function. They ought, therefore, to discharge their office with the sincere piety and decorum demanded by so exalted a ministry and rightly expected of them by God's people” (Second Vatican Council, Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacrosanctum Concilium, 29).
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Nursery Ministry Guidelines
Nursery Guidelines for Parents
Suggested ages for children is Toddler-4 years old.
Older children are invited to sit with their parents and attend the Children’s Liturgy.
All children must be signed in.
Parents are requested to sit towards the front on the right side of the church so that if a parent is
needed, they can approach the nursery quickly.
Parents will be given a vibrating pager. Parents must physically wear the pager given to them
(please dot no place in purse or other baggage).
Please put your name on all personal belongings you leave at the nursery (diaper bags, cups, etc.)
Sickness
In an effort to not pass germs to others:
Child must be fever free for 24 hours
Child must not have had an occurrence of diarrhea or vomiting for 24 hours
No green runny noses
Please use your best judgment with regard to coughing, rashes, etc.
Bottles, cups and diaper bags should be labeled and include instructions. Please limit beverages to
water only. We request that there be no snacks due to sharing issues, possible allergies, choking,
clean-up, etc.
Behavior
Please instruct children to be respectful and obedient to nursery volunteers.
Parents will be signaled to come and get their child if he/she becomes unmanageable.
Maximum of 10 children when 2 volunteers are present and 6 children when 1 volunteer is
present.
Volunteers are always needed so if you are interested in volunteering, contact the Parish
Office at 815-3100.
Thank you for your cooperation!
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Sacristan Guidelines Typically, the Parish Deacons should serve as the Sacristans at all of the Masses.
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Usher Guidelines
Responsible to: Head Usher
Mission
The Mission of the SGG Usher Program is to above all, promote the love of God. By utilizing the power
of volunteers who have been certified to be an usher, we will readily make ourselves available to assist
Priests, Deacons, guest’s speakers and others in any way necessary for them to successfully conduct a
mass. We will strive to make everyone feel welcome at SGG. We will train for and play a main role
should a medical emergency arise and stand ready to assist doctors/nurses, EMT’s who are attending those
in need.
Vision
Saint Gregory the Great Ushers – through its strong network of volunteers will always be readily available
in times of need in both emergency and non-emergency situations. We aspire to turn compassion into
action so that…
Ushers stand ready and prepared to assist everyone, especially the physically challenged and elderly
when needed.
All who enter this church feel welcome.
All who enter this church see a dedicated team of caring, well trained ushers.
All who enter this church feel confident ushers know what to do in cases of emergencies.
All who enter this church find comfort and support wherever needed.
Process
Each usher is a minister of hospitality, carrying out his/her duties in a welcoming, warm, friendly,
manner. Welcome one another as you would welcome Christ.
Qualifications for an SGG Usher:
A person fully initiated in the Catholic Faith, i.e., Baptized, Confirmed, received First Eucharist
If married, the marriage must be recognized by the Catholic Church
A registered member of SGG
Attend an Usher Training Session
Complete all Safe Environment Requirements
At least 18 years of age
Dress: Please dress respectfully for the Eucharistic banquet of our Lord. Suggestions are that men wear a suit
and tie or a jacket and tie. Women should wear a pants-suit, dress, or skirt.
Duties Prior to the Start of Mass and General Information:
Greet those entering the church in a friendly manner. A greeting of “Good Morning,” “Good
Evening”, or a plain “Hello” sets a good feeling/atmosphere for those participating in the Holy Mass.
Check the Ministry Schedule to identify the Ushers scheduled for the Mass. Check with the Ministry
Coordinator and/or bulletin board in the usher’s closet for any special activities at each Mass such as a
guest speaker, special second collection, or procession. Second collections are now posted on the
cabinet door in the usher’s closet where the collection baskets are kept. Also check the bulletin board
in the usher’s closet under USHERS for special instructions. ALL USHERS READ IT BEFORE
EACH MASS.
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Arrive 30 minutes before Mass, check in with the Mass Coordinator and sign in. Do this outside the
Liturgical Ministry Room for the Sunday 5 P.M. Mass.
Make sure there are no impediments that are blocking doors (i.e. posters, tables, etc.) and move them
to appropriate areas so as not to impede parishioners entering the church.
Ushers do not open or prop open any inside door to the main body of the church except for the
physically challenged or elderly needing assistance. Do not hold doors open for parishioners
entering the Church – for reasons of noise control and temperature control. Assist with special
seating, or any other request that parishioners may have. Do not allow walkers, wheel chairs or baby
carriers to sit in any aisle. (Against Fire Regulations) Encourage physically challenged to sit up front
in rows reserved for them and put their walkers in a safe place out of the way. When placing a
person in a wheel chair in the 1st row, be sure to lock the wheels.
If restroom supplies have run out, there are more supplies available in the janitor’s closet located in
the men’s restroom.
When seating is scattered, do not separate families from sitting together. Motion for people to move
together but do it quietly and be sure to quietly thank people when they comply. DO NOT BE
BASHFUL ABOUT ASKING PEOPLE TO MOVE TOGETHER TO MAKE ROOM FOR
OTHERS. 12 to 13 people per row is a good guide. When people on the end of a pew stand to let
someone in, quietly thank them. Fill the front seats first (if possible) so that those arriving late can be
seated at the rear of the church without disturbing the main body of the church.
Your most important task is to make people feel welcome, safe, and respected. Handle all situations
without a confrontation as at times they do occur. You WILL encounter difficult situations so handle
them in a professional manner. Please perform your duties in such a manner as to not distract seated
parishioners during the Mass. It may be necessary to take loud conversations to the St. Helena room
and close the door.
After depositing money in the vault, make sure all doors are closed in the back of the church including
and especially the outside doors. Lock the door to the vault.
When exiting the church, make sure all front doors are closed and not propped open.
Lead usher is #1. He/she is responsible to make sure all tasks are completed. He/she may find it
necessary at times, to change assignments especially with new, inexperienced ushers. Also, some
ushers sometimes prefer one position over another. If it is OK with usher #1, switching positions is
acceptable. Just make sure you realize what the duties of that position are and you are willing to do
them.
Only ushers 1 and 4 shall be in the center aisle at the same time. Any more than that is a distraction.
Please do not have more than 2 ushers in the center aisle at once. #4 usher stay in the rear. #1 stay
front and center working toward the rear.
NO USHER IS TO BLOCK PEOPLE FROM ENTERING THE CHURCH EVEN IF THE
PROCESSION IS IN PLACE. CONTINUE SEATING UNTIL THE BELL RINGS THEN
USHER #4 WILL BRING PEOPLE IN AND HAVE THEM STAND IN THE REAR UNTIL
SEATING BEGINS AGAIN.
Noise is a continuing problem. At all times please make sure that conversations, greetings, etc. are
kept short and at a low level out of respect for those in the church who are praying.
When seating people, there will sometimes be parishioners who want to remain at the end of
their pew. These can include Eucharistic Ministers, readers, people with physical challenges, or
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medical problems. While this will present a small inconvenience for parishioners entering these pews,
do not attempt to move the people sitting on the end to the middle as they may be there for a reason.
At the Saturday 4 P.M., Sunday 9 A.M., and Sunday 11 A.M. masses, at least one usher is to be
standing in the rear at all times to observe the congregation for emergencies. He/she shall notify #1
immediately for instructions when emergencies occur.
NOTE: The Diocese requires that all members of this Ministry be Safe Environment trained for the safety
and integrity of our church and members. Training includes a background check, credit check, as ushers
are handling monies, and 90 minutes of classroom training regarding working with children or vulnerable
adults.
Lead or Usher #1:
The first name on the list is the Lead Usher for that Mass.
The lead Usher should check with the Mass Coordinator and the bulletin board in the Liturgical
Ministry closet to see if there are special collections to be taken up after communion. These are now
posted in the Liturgical Ministry Room on the cabinet door where the collection baskets are
kept.
The Lead Usher is responsible for coordinating the activities/duties of the other three ushers during
that Mass.
The Lead Usher will take a position in the front center aisle 15 minutes before Mass starts.
Remember to bow toward the altar when arriving in front.
Continue seating new arrivals until the priest rings the bell to begin mass. Continue seating even if the
procession is in place in the rear. Once the bell has rung, take a position in the front, along one of the
side isles and wait there until the priest and deacon arrive at their seat on the altar. Once they are in
place, (while still standing) return to the front center aisle and resume seating working your way to the
rear of the church. Once you have repositioned yourself in the center aisle, look for hand signals from
Usher 4 at the rear of the center aisle indicating how many seats are needed for new arrivals.
Parishioners can be seated at any time up to and after the homily. EXCEPTION: NO MOVEMENT
DURING PRAYER.
Usher #1 will start the collection (3 baskets) at the front of the church. He/She will walk to the front
row following the Offertory Procession. After the gift bearers pass you to return to their seat, bow to
the altar, and then proceed with the collection. If there are no parishioners in the front row, start the
basket at the far end of the next pew so that the basket will return to the 4th
row when complete. The
pews have a marker on the side as to where each basket is started. If there is a second collection,
follow the same procedure immediately after the priest closes the tabernacle door.
After all of the baskets are emptied into one large basket Usher #1 will take the basket up the left aisle
and hand it to one of the altar servers. If the server is not present take the basket up onto the altar and
place it under the table where the host and wine sits.
IF THERE IS COMMUNION IN THE REAR OF THE CHURCH
4 P.M. Saturday, 9 A.M. Sunday & 11 A.M. Sunday
At the same time the EMs start up the steps to take their places on the altar, (as the priest consumes the
host), usher #1 will walk slowly from the rear to the center front aisle. Stand in front to the side to let
the EMs pass to the rear of the church, then center himself/herself in the center of the aisle and
beginning with the 2nd
aisle, direct parishioners to the priest and deacon to receive Holy Communion.
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Continue directing all the way back until ushers directing in the rear meet with the usher directing
from the front. Turn and join the other ushers and all 4 will receive communion in the rear.
Usher #1 & Usher #2 will proceed up the left aisle to the left front of the church during the closing
minutes of the Mass. As the procession proceeds down the center aisle Usher #1 will approach the
altar, bow and get the collection basket from under the table then proceed to the Sacristy. Obtain a
plastic bank bag in the sacristy cabinet and place all of the collection items (money, notes,
applications, etc.) in the bag. Use additional bags if necessary. Do NOT sort or bundle the envelopes
or paper money. Each Usher will sign his/her name on the bag, date it and label it appropriately (i.e.
1-12-16, Harry Walker, 9 am 1st collection, 1-12-16, Harry Walker, 9 am 2
nd collection). Ushers 1 and
2 shall together place all bags in the vault.
NOTE: By diocesan policy, under no circumstances may a married couple handle the collection by
themselves. Should a husband and wife be delegated as #1 & #2 Ushers, then substitute one or the other
with Ushers #3 or #4. If by chance all are related, ask the coordinator or Deacon to assist.
Usher #2
Usher #2 will position himself/herself 15 minutes prior to mass in the left side aisle of the church and
seat people accordingly. Be sure to escort people to available seating rather than pointing to empty
seats. Fill from front to rear. When pews are full you will be at the rear of your aisle. Remain in your
aisle until no more seating is available or no more people are coming in. People may be seated at any
time. EXCEPTION: NO MOVEMENT DURING PRAYER.
Usher #2 will start the collection (3 baskets) at the front of the church opposite Usher #1 using same
procedure as usher #1.
When there is communion in the back of the church (4:00 pm Saturday, 9 am & 11 am on Sunday) and
the Eucharistic Ministers (EMs) are in position in the rear, direct the people to the rear EMs for
communion starting with the last pew. Continue directing people from the pews until you meet usher
#1 in the center aisle.
Usher #2 will join usher #1 and proceed to the left front of the church during the closing minutes of
the Mass. Working together both ushers 1 and 2 will follow procedure for banking money as outlined
in usher #1 procedures.
NOTE: By diocesan policy, under no circumstances may a married couple handle the collection by
themselves. If a husband and wife are delegated as #1 & #2 then substitute one or the other with Ushers
#3 or #4. If by chance all are related, ask the coordinator or a deacon to assist.
Usher #3
Usher #3 will position himself/herself 15 minutes prior to Mass in the right side aisle of the church
and seat people accordingly. Be sure to escort people to available seating rather than pointing to
empty seats. Fill from front to rear. When pews are full you will be at the rear of your aisle. Remain in
your aisle until no more seating is available or no more people are coming in. People may be seated at
any time.
EXCEPTION: NO MOVEMENT DURING PRAYER.
Usher #3 will start the collection (3 baskets) at the center of the church along with Usher #4. Walk to
the 3rd
marker at the end of the pew and stop. Once at your position, wait until the lead ushers bow
toward the alter at which time you do the same. Then proceed with the collection. The pews have a
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marker on the side as to where each basket is started. If there is a second collection, follow the same
procedure immediately after the priest closes the tabernacle door.
During communion when EMs are serving in the rear, usher 3 will work with usher 2 in the rear of the
church. Working toward the front, he/she will direct people into the aisle and toward the EMs by the
rear doors until they meet with usher one working toward them.
Usher #4
Usher #4 shall position himself/herself in the center aisle at the rear of the church a couple rows
forward about 15 minutes prior to mass. As the church begins to fill, he/she will feed people coming in
to usher #1 at the front of the aisle by using hand signals showing how many seats are needed. This
will cause the seating to take place from front to rear. As physically challenged people come through
the doors, usher 4 shall encourage them to sit in the 1st row in front of the church. (Reserved for
physically challenged) You might mention the fact that they do not have to get up to take communion.
It comes to them if they are in the front. If they are in a wheelchair, it might be necessary to assist
them by pushing them to the front and LOCK THE WHEELS. Continue seating even after the
procession is in place in the back of the church before the bell rings. Once the bell rings. Stand aside
until the procession moves forward. When usher #1 is back in place, continue coordinating seating
with usher #1. DO NOT BLOCK PEOPLE FROM ENTERING THE CHURCH. IF THE
PROCESSION IS IN PLACE, BRING THEM INTO THE CHURCH AND CONTINUE SEATING
UNTIL THE BELL RINGS. ONCE THE BELL HAS RUNG, STAND THEM AGAINST THE
WALL UNTIL THE PROCESSION HAS ARRIVED AT THE ALTER THEN BEGIN SEATING
AGAIN. DO NOT BLOCK PEOPLE FROM ENTERING THE CHURCH.
NO MOVEMENT DURING PRAYER
Usher #4 will start the collection (3 baskets) at the center of the church along with Usher #3. He/she
will walk to the 3rd
pew that is marked following Ushers #1 & #2 and stop. Once at your position wait
until the lead ushers bow their heads at which time you do the same. Then proceed with the
collection. The pews have a marker on the side as to where each basket is started. If there is a second
collection, follow the same procedure after the priest closes the tabernacle door.
For communion; when there are people in the vestibule, usher 4 will step into the vestibule when the
invitation to offer the sign of peace occurs. Begin at the far left side by the bathrooms, offer a very
quick sign of peace to everyone and keep moving quickly from left to right. Step into the room next to
the St. Helena room and call the police for assistance. (i.e. “This is Harry Walker at SGG Catholic
Church, 333 Fording Island Rd. can we get some assistance with traffic control in about 10 minutes
please?”) # is on the phone. Come back and stand in front of the main doors. Make an announcement:
“anyone who would like to receive communion please form 2 lines in front of me.” When the lines
are formed, stand at the door and open it when the EM arrives. Stay outside the doors to make sure no
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one pushes past the EMs inside. While holding the doors closed, if someone tries to come through the
doors, point to the side doors and have them exit through the side doors. ONCE COMMUNION HAS
STARTED, NO ONE CAN EXIT THROUGH THOSE DOORS UNTIL THE FINAL PROCESSION
HAS EXITED. When the pews going forward and the pews coming to the rear are very close, usher 4
will go into the church through a side door, join the last pew going to the rear, join the other 3 ushers
and all 4 ushers receive communion together.
Some people will only accept communion from a priest or deacon.
If you are one of those people, go forward and receive.
After communion is served usher 3 or 4 will stand in front of the main door to discourage people from
leaving through this exit. No one can enter or exit by these doors until the procession has passed.
Quietly point to one side or the other to direct them to exit by a side door. Stand in this position until
the greeters open the doors for the procession then just step aside.
Medical Emergencies
Ushers at each mass should become familiar with at least 2 nurses/doctors who attend their Mass
frequently. Call on them quietly when possible if a medical situation arises.
Inform them of hand signals in case they are needed.
DO NOT DO ANYTHING YOU ARE NOT TRAINED TO DO
(You could open yourself and the church up to liability issues)
Ushers should maintain an awareness of anyone who may need medical attention. Therefore, at least
one usher shall remain in the back of the church during the entire mass and if someone does need
medical attention, USHERS WILL IMMEDIATELY DO THE FOLLOWING ALL AT ONCE:
If a person is unconscious, having trouble breathing, having an apparent heart attack, experiencing any
numbness, or just sick, make an immediate appeal to the Priest or Deacon to summon a nurse/doctor.
An usher will go to the center of the main aisle and use the hand signals in the picture to get the
attention of the priest/deacon.
NURSE/DOCTOR ONLY Not calling 9-1-1
NURSE/DOCTOR/PRIEST Calling 9-1-1
Hand Signals
s
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After priest makes an appeal for a nurse/doctor, usher at the patient will ask if person responding is
medically trained. Stand by and assist medical professional and Priest. Allow medical professional to
take charge of patient. If any usher has medical experience, he/she automatically stays with patient
and nurse/doctor for this situation. If usher is a nurse/doctor, they can take charge of the patient.
Keep untrained people and sightseers away. Clear the pews if necessary.
An usher will go to the usher closet and bring the wheelchair, AED and extra pads. Stand near the
patient out of the way and wait for instructions from nurse/doctor, priest.
If nurse/doctor determines the patient is responsive and able to be moved, place in wheelchair and take
to the St. Helena room. (Try to not let them walk on their own). Clear the room for privacy. Get the
oils case from the Vestiary, give to the priest.
An usher is to immediately call 9-1-1. When you call, the first thing you say to the operator is, “I AM
(YOUR NAME). I NEED AN AMBULANCE AT ST. GREGORY CATHOLIC CHURCH AT 333
FORDING ISLAND RD. BLUFFTON FOR AN EMERGENCY.” Now answer their questions. If you
lose your phone connection, they at least know where there is an emergency situation.
If a person tells you they are diabetic, there is a tube of Cake Icing in the first aid kit. Cake Icing is
pure sugar. Squeeze some into patient’s hand and let them lick it off their own hand. You should see
improvement almost immediately if blood sugar is too low. If it is too high, it will not hurt them.
(Source: American Red Cross First Aid)
Send a greeter (or someone) outside to direct EMS inside once they arrive.
If EMS is going to transport patient to the hospital, ushers will provide a clear path for the emergency
crew to reach the ambulance.
Find out patient’s name and where they are taking patient and notify priest after mass.
Medical emergencies require the entire usher team to get involved as one usher cannot perform all the
necessary duties during these emergency situations.
Purpose of using hand signals: Perform your duties as quietly and discreetly as possible
IF PRIEST OR DEACON SIGNALS USHERS,
USHERS WILL BRING WHEELCHAIR, AED AND OILS.
CALL 9-1-1 IF HAND SIGNAL DICTATES.
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Welcoming Ministry Guidelines Mission
The mission of the Welcoming Ministry is essentially to be a warm and loving connection to our parish
family for visitors and new parishioners, providing information and invitation that will foster a feeling of
belonging and facilitate active participation within the St. Gregory the Great Parish community.
Process
Staffing: A minimum of 2 Welcome Team Members (WTMs) will be designated for each Mass on
Saturdays and Sundays. WTM may rotate Mass participation depending upon schedule and availability.
Welcome Team Members (WTMs) will prominently wear name badges before, during, and after Mass.
WTMs may sit with their family during Mass to promote a presence within the parish as well as a sense of
accessibility.
Prior to Mass. The designated WTM will set-up an information table outside in the front church portico.
(Tables can be found in the Liturgical Ministry Closet just outside of the restrooms) to include:
A Welcome poster board - general information, dates and locations inculding:
1. New parishioner "Meet-and-Greet" information
2. Bible studies and other educational opportunities
3. Christ Renews His Parish Retreat
4. Prayer and fellowship opportunities
A Team Member picture board with names to foster recognition in Mass and other SGG events
A Welcome book to gather contact information and specific queries
Church bulletins
Flyers for upcoming events
Information about the various ministries at SGG
Parishioner registration form
Refreshments [future]
After Mass. Designated WTMs will leave the church after Communion, but before the last hymn to man
the information table. WTMs should stand to the side of [or behind] the information table, alert to those
seeking information. Make eye contact, with a welcoming smile.
Welcome folks to SGG, tell them you are glad they are here
Ask if they are visiting or a new parishioner; engage in open conversation
Convey that SGG is a vibrant parish that welcomes new members
Ask how you may help them; do they have any questions
Point out various events on information board
Ask if they would like a follow up home visit from a WTM.
IMPORTANT: make sure they provide their contact information in the Welcome Book
WTMs are urged to refrain from chatting with friends, but to be fully available to visitors and new
parishioners.
After Welcoming Timeframe. All Welcome Information Table paraphernalia should be returned to the
Ministry Closet prior to leaving the church (unless it will be used at the next Mass). WTMs should pass
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along the contact information of visitors and new parishioners, with any specific questions or needs to
Corinne Farinelli for follow up.
SCHEDULING
WTM will be scheduled for designated Masses 2 weeks in advance. It is the WTM responsibility to
arrange for a substitute if necessary.
FOLLOW UP
Welcome Letter. Corinne Farinelli will send a follow up welcome letter to all [visitors and] new
parishioners who provided their contact information to a WTM. Corinne will forward pastoral-
specific requests to Pastoral Associate.
Welcome Visit/Meeting for New Parishioners. A 30 minute visit of 1-2 team members will be
scheduled at their convenience. Deliver a welcome kit to include: recent bulletin, information
about upcoming learning and fellowship events, and a small gift. Give them a chance to talk; ask
questions about their family. Invite them to join you at a specific event. Make arrangements to
meet them, time and location. Give them a Welcome Packet to include:
Facts and figures about parish
Schedule of Masses and confessions
List of parish activities
Map of parish facilities
List of staff and contact information
Parish mission statement
Catholic education programs
Parish bulletin
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How to Use the Online Parish Scheduling System This is a description of our Ministry Scheduling System. It is the system you will use to manage all of your
ministry scheduling or changes. If after reading this document you have additional questions please contact the
Pastoral Associate at [email protected]
All ministry assignments are posted on the Parish’s Ministry Scheduler Pro website:
https://secure.ministryschedulerpro.com/webterminal/login.php?user=SGG
This web site includes your personal schedule, full liturgical ministry schedules, rosters, and your personal profile.
You will be notified via email of your scheduled times around the 18th of each month. If you have a conflict, the
email has a hot button you can click on to request a substitute. This request will be sent out to all volunteers in that
ministry. Once a person volunteers to take your place, they will click on the appropriate link (in the email) and the
schedule will automatically be updated. Therefore, you do NOT have to make phone calls to find a substitute.
However, if no one volunteers to fill your spot please call one of the members on your team and inform them that a
substitute has not been found. This member will then notify the Ministry Coordinator who will proceed to search
for a substitute prior to Mass. If you are unable to provide your service on a particular date(s) please update your
Ministry Scheduler profile with these dates prior to the 15th of the preceding month. A reminded will typically be
sent around the 8th of each month. The program will then create the schedules accordingly. If you are new to this
ministry and have been instructed on the duties of ushering, the Pastoral Associate will add your name to the
database and you will receive a temporary password for access to this site.
Log In Page: When signing up as a minister, you will set up username as well as a password. In order for you to enter into the
Ministry Scheduling System you will need to enter these two pieces of data:
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After you are logged in the main menu will appear as follows:
Each tab is self explanatory. My Schedule:
Under the My Schedule tab will be listed your scheduled times to serve. Included will be the day, month, Mass time, and your particular position or duty. Note to the right of your duty is included a hot button to request a sub if for any reason you cannot fulfill your assignment on that particular day. Click on the “request sub” and the following window will appear:
You can fill in a reason in the “Comments/reason” area or just leave it blank. Then click on the “Request sub” button to process. The system then will send out an email to all ushers requesting a sub for you. If no one accepts to fill your position the Mass Coordinator will try to find a replacement for you prior to the start of Mass. Please try to submit all sub requests as soon as you can such that there will be plenty of time for others to respond.
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Full Schedules:
In this window all of the Masses are listed for the weekend as well as the month. Also all ministry positions are listed so it is an easy reference to view for you time, day, and ministry position. Note that you can also click on a “sub req” to fill in for another minister. Rosters:
After clicking on the “Roster” tab you will have too choices: “Roster” which is the full roster or “Greeter” which is the roster for the greeters. The above is an example of what you will by clicking on “Roster”. You can use this information to contact other parishioners. Please do not use this information for anything other than church purposes.
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My Profile:
The profile area is where you define all of your requirements for ushering. * The first box under this tab is all of your contact information such as name, address, telephone number, etc. * The second box defines which ministries you are available for. Click on the appropriate ministry on the left then click on “add” to transfer it to the right which will contain all of your selections. Do the opposite if you wish to remove any selections from the right. * The third box defines which Mass you prefer to serve in. Click on the “Add” button and a list of Masses will be presented. Choose the Mass time that suits you and then click on the “Add” button to transfer it. * The fourth box can have multiple entries. First is the number of times you wish to serve each month. Second are the dates/times you cannot serve or will be unavailable. Click on the “Add” button and a window will come up giving you all kinds of options for scheduling. Fill in the appropriate boxes, times, etc. then click the “OK” button to transfer it to the previous page. Note that this information has to usually be submitted several weeks in advance such that the scheduler system can be updated in time.
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*NOTE: After all of the data is entered in the above boxes it is not yet transferred to the system. In order for your selections to be submitted your final action will be to click on the “Submit” button for your data to be entered into the system. If for any reason your data is not being acted upon properly such as too much or too little scheduling, wrong Masses, etc., check your profile periodically to make sure all boxes/entries are what you want them to be. Admin:
The “Admin” tab usually is for administrative purposes and which you will not typically be involved with.
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Protocols for Processing Liturgical Ministry Sign-up Sheets
The following protocols are used by the SGG Parish Office in processing new liturgical ministry
volunteers. Ministry coordinators are requested to understand these protocols during the training
process of new volunteers.
1. New Liturgical Ministry Sign-up Sheet. SGG receives a Liturgical Ministry Sign-up Sheet. This is conveyed to the Parish
Volunteer Coordinator (Chris Gustafson).The Parish Volunteer Coordinator retains a copy of the Liturgical Ministry Sign-up in a
VOLUNTEER PENDING FILE.
2. The Parish Volunteer Coordinator determines if the New Volunteer is in need of Safe Environment Training (See Guidelines
on pg. 2) or has already had Safe Environment Training.
No Safe Environment Training Needed Safe Environment Training Needed
3. The Parish Volunteer Coordinator conveys a copy of the Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheet to the Ministry Coordinator and
training commences. This is typically done by e-mail.
4. New Volunteer ministry training completed. Once the New Volunteer has been trained, the Ministry Coordinator(s) informs the
Parish Volunteer Coordinator that the New Volunteer is ready to begin by sending a copy of the person’s Liturgical Ministry Sign-
up Sheet via e-mail.
5. Liturgical Ministry Sign-up Sheet is transferred from the VOLUNTEER PENDING FILE to a VOLUNTEER
PERMANENT FILE and the New Volunteer’s information is entered onto the MASTER VOLUNTEER LIST and Ministry
Scheduler Pro. All Liturgical Ministry Volunteers will have their Liturgical Ministry Sign-Up Sheet stored in the VOLUNTEER
PERMANENT FILE. Those who are required to have Safe Environment Training will also have information located in the SAFE
ENVIRONMENT PERMANENT FILE.
If the New Volunteer has not already received a “Safe Environment Forms Packet,” they are
informed that they will need to fill one out by their Ministry Coordinator. The New Volunteer
should immediately register online for the next VIRTUS Training course.
Once the pertinent forms of the “Safe Environment Forms Packet” have been filled out and
returned to the Parish Office, they are conveyed to the Parish Safe Environment Coordinator
(Barbara Hollis) who in turn conveys copies to the Office of Child Protection Services for the
Diocese of Charleston. The originals are placed in a SAFE ENVIRONMENT PENDING
FILE.
Once the Parish Safe Environment Coordinator has received clearance from the Office of
Child Protection Services for a New Volunteer, the Parish Volunteer Coordinator is to be
notified. The Parish Safe Environment Coordinator updates the New Volunteer’s records in the
SAFE ENVIRONMENT PENDING FILE awaiting completion of VIRTUS training.
If VIRTUS Training is required for a New Volunteer, it must be completed BEFORE the volunteer is allowed to begin
volunteering. Once VIRTUS Training is completed, the Safe Environment Coordinator moves the New Volunteer records
from the SAFE ENVIRONMENT PENDING FILE to the SAFE ENVIRONMENT PERMANENT FILE.
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6. Ministry Coordinator contacts New Liturgical Ministry Volunteer to inform them that they are ready to begin volunteering.
Once the Parish Volunteer Coordinator has ascertained that a New Liturgical Ministry Volunteer is ready to begin to volunteer, the
Ministry Coordinator is advised to inform the New Volunteer that the New Volunteer has been entered into Ministry Scheduler Pro.
The New Volunteer will most likely be scheduled to volunteer by Ministry Scheduler Pro during the next scheduling period. END
Guidelines for Determining whether a New Volunteer is in Need of Safe Environment Training
No Safe Environment Training or Background Check Needed:
Sacristans
Greeters
Lectors
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
Altar Servers
ANY VOLUNTEER WHO DOES NOT HAVE “REGULAR ACCESS TO MINORS” OR VULNERABLE ADULTS
Safe Environment Training Needed (including background check and VIRTUS Training) (To be given a “Safe Environment Forms Packet”):
Nursery Volunteer (Required Forms: forms in box below)
Holy Communion to the Homebound (Required Forms: forms in box below)
Ushers (Required Forms: Diocese of Charleston Credit Authorization Form and forms in box below)
ANY VOLUNTEER WHO HAS “REGULAR ACCESS TO MINORS” OR VULNERABLE ADULTS
(Required Forms: forms in box below)
Required Forms for those in need of Safe Environment Training
Diocese of Charleston Background Screening Basic Data Form
Acknowledgement and Authorization for Background Check
Disclosure Regarding Background Investigation
Diocese of Charleston Code of Conduct Agreement
Diocese of Charleston Acknowledgement of Receipt of the Policy Concerning Allegations of Sexual Abuse
or Misconduct of a Minor by Church Personnel (2012) and of The Code of Conduct for Church Personnel
Diocesan Policy Regarding Confidentiality and Abiding by Catholic Principles