Ministries of the Month

It is the whole community, the Body of Christ united with its Head, that celebrates the liturgy (see Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1140).  As the Body of Christ, we each have a very important and necessary role in the celebration of Mass.  While all the baptized are called to actively participate in liturgy, some members of the Church are called to special service.  
Liturgical ministry is an excellent opportunity to fulfill your baptismal call of service to one another. Our liturgies should utilize the talents and gifts that God has given this community to the fullest extent.  
 
 
 

The Word of God is not merely read during the liturgy. It is proclaimed. Effective proclamation involves the delivery of the message with clarity, conviction, and appropriate pace. Proclamation is a special ministry which presupposes faith and also rouses faith in those who hear the word proclaimed.

The Lector ministry offers a unique opportunity for parishioners to breathe life into the Word. After completion of a training (a guidebook is provided for preparation and reflection prior to serving), lectors can either request a permanent Mass week and time or if more flexibility is needed sign up to serve at an open slot via Signup Genius. The lectors proclaim Old and New Testament scriptures at weekend, holy day, and special liturgies.
At Mass, the Lector proclaims the First and Second readings, the Responsorial Psalm when a Cantor is not present, and also leads the Prayers of the Faithful when a Deacon is not present.

For more information or to volunteer, please call the parish office
at 301-249-9199 or send an email to: Coordinator Mady Hamilton at mmh5714@gmail.com

 

 

The ushers of St. Edward’s play an integral role in our parish spirit. They provide us with the comfort of a friendly greeting when we enter the church for Mass.

Their responsibilities start before many of us arrive. Some of the more obvious tasks include: helping people find seating, arrange for the presentation of the gifts, collection and security of the offerings, ensure an orderly flow at communion time and oversee the general appearance of the church. When we finally leave the church, the ushers are there to hand out the bulletins with the same warmth that greeted you before.
Usually they serve at the same weekend Mass regularly. They arrive 20 minutes early, stay afterwards to straighten up and are available to guide and answer questions that parishioners or guests might have.
All that is needed is a love of order, an ability to graciously welcome people, an eye for anything out of place. We encourage all responsible teens as well as adults to join us. An initial training is provided. Contact the office for more information or if interested in serving.