At St. James, we take seriously the ancient meaning of liturgy, from the Greek leitourgia, from leitourgos minister, from leit- people + ergon work, or the people's work. (Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged © HarperCollins Publishers 1991, 1994, 1998, 2000, 2003)

If you feel called to any of these ministries in worship, please contact Helen Campbell, Director of Lay Ministry by email or phone at 225-387-5141.

Acolytes

Young persons, male or female, are encouraged to assist the clergy during Sunday services, weddings, and other special services. At St. James, acolytes light and snuff the altar candles, lead the processions, help with the offertory, and assist in the preparation of the altar at the Eucharist. The Rev. Alina Williams is now leading the acolytes and would love to hear from you if you are interested in this service.

Altar Guild

This lay ministry of men and women serves to prepare the altar for Eucharist as well as take care of the hangings, linens, and vessels. Members presently serve on rotating teams assigned to your preferred service time, so you might be assigned to altar guild duties every four to eight weeks, depending on the service and team.

Eucharistic Ministers

This ministry has been called Chalice Bearers, Lay Eucharist Ministers, or LEMs but the official title is now Eucharistic Minister. Those feeling called to this ministry are trained by the clergy to assist with the service of communion during Sunday services and at other special times, as needed. Email Fr. Miller to indicate your interest and for more information.

Eucharistic Visitors

A meaningful service is performed by persons commissioned to take the consecrated sacrament to sick or infirm members of the congregation. This ministry helps the homebound parishioner know that he or she is a valued member of the congregation.

Lector/Intercessor

The Scripture lessons and intercessory prayers are read by members of the congregation during the Sunday services. Scheduling is done on a rotating basis based on your preferred, usual service time. The lessons are provided at least two weeks in advance so the lector has opportunity to become familiar with the reading before the assigned date.

Ushers

Ushers welcome, provide seating assistance, distribute service bulletins, and assist in the service. Usher teams of men and women usually serve every four to six weeks.

Wedding Guild

Two committee members are assigned to each wedding to work with families in preparing for a wedding; they attend the rehearsal and coordinate the ceremony.

Welcome Committee

Visitors are greeted after each service to welcome persons to St. James, to offer a visitor's gift, and to answer questions as well as to introduce them to others. Teams work on a monthly schedule.