Acolytes
The Ministry of altar service is open to all men, women and children in good standing in the Parish. The sole requirements are an attitude of reverence and a deep respect for the Mass. The personal qualities of self-discipline, attention to details, alertness and punctuality will make the acolyte more effective. The acolyte's responsibilities usually begin 30 minutes before Mass. He/she is responsible for the preparation of the sacred vessels, the linens, the books, and any other items needed for the celebration of the Mass. The acolyte leads the entrance and recessional processions and serves the priest throughout the Mass. After Mass there is cleanup which normally takes about 15-30 minutes. This exceptionally rewarding ministry calls for a strong commitment to service. One-on-one training is provided to ensure those called to this service are thoroughly versed and practiced in all its activities. All children 4th grade and over who are enrolled in Parish Religious Education classes are eligible to serve as Junior Acolytes. Our Junior Acolytes provide the altar service for the Sunday 4 pm Family Mass. The Ministry of altar service offers children an excellent opportunity to develop a sense of reverence and to acquire familiarity with the Mass. Each child is given thorough on-the-job training.

Eucharistic Ministers
The Diocesan Bishop commissions Eucharistic Ministers, at the recommendation of the Pastor. These Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion serve two year terms and are called on to distribute the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ during Sunday, daily and Holy Day Masses. This ministry is open to fully initiated Catholics of good reputation, and good standing with the Church and who have a deep love of the Eucharist. Some Eucharistic ministers also serve as “Ministers to the Homebound”, bringing the Eucharist to the sick and Homebound. Special training for this Ministry is provided.

Lectors
Lectors proclaim the first two scripture passages for the Sunday liturgy and for daily Masses to which they have been assigned.
To be a lector, one should feel comfortable speaking before a large group and be willing to spend time studying the readings he/she will be proclaiming.
To arrange for an orientation session, please contact Lynn Wray at 393-0736.

Ushers/Greeters
Ushers and Greeters are some of the first folks we see when coming into the Narthex. They greet us with warm smiles and a Good Morning or Good Afternoon, and hold the door open for us and direct the flow of traffic. Their role is to ensure proper order within the assembly during Masses and other special liturgical celebrations and occasions. Ushers are responsible for seating people, assisting those with special needs and collecting the stewardship offerings. They also coordinate the presentation of the gifts at the offering and handle medical emergencies and other situations when they arise. Captains are assigned to the teams for each of the regularly scheduled Masses to ensure a smooth operation. Men and women of the Parish interested in this Hospitality Ministry are encouraged to participate. Check the Bulletin for meeting notices.

Welcome Committee an Outreach Ministry
This outreach ministry also fosters an atmosphere of welcome to all parishioners providing opportunities and information in the parish. We sponsor the Winter Welcoming Breakfast * and Annual Ministry Fair. * Be sure to check the Bulletin for the dates and times of the fall Welcoming Breakfast for new and returning members.

Friends of Lazarus
“I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” John 11:25-26 The Friends of Lazarus are parishioners who are available to attend Memorial or Funeral Masses for Our Lady of the Valley family who have gone to be with God in heaven. If you wish to participate in this ministry call the contact person listed to leave your phone number or e-mail. You will be notified when a service is scheduled and a Friend is needed.