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LAY MINISTRIES

In recent years, lay members of the Catholic Church have become increasingly involved in ministries which were once seen as being the preserve of the Priest. At Our Lady of Canvey we have many people actively involved in these ministries.

Catechists

Catechists lead the programmes of preparation for the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, First Holy Communion, Reconciliation, and Marriage.

Readers

Readers proclaim the Word of God in scripture and the intercessory prayers during the weekday & weekend Masses at Our Lady of Canvey. If you would like to become a Reader at Mass please speak to Fr Eamonn or contact the Parish Office. Training is offered on a regular basis.

Altar Servers

Altar Servers have the important task of assisting the Priest, Ministers, Readers  and congregation during Mass. There is an open invitation for new Altar Servers (children from the end of school year 4 onwards who have made their First Holy Communion) to join the training sessions which are run at regular intervals during the year.The initial training lasts for about 3-4 weeks or until you feel confident about the roles. After 1 year you take your vows as a member of the Guild of St Stephen and receive your Bronze medal at a special Mass on St Stephen’s Day (26th December)

If you are interested in becoming an Altar Server then please speak to the Fr Eamonn or Joe O’Connor, our Parish M.C.



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Choir

The Choir contributes significantly to music at the 10.00 am Sunday Mass and other special occasions on request. Enthusiasm is more important than a perfect voice. Singers and musicians are always welcome.



Church Cleaning

There are a number of Teams dedicated either to looking after the small linen or to keeping the  interior of the Church clean. But more volunteers are always most welcome.

Flower Group

The Church is supported by a very loyal group of parishioners but anyone who has an interest in flower arranging or who would like to develop their skills in this area are always welcome.

Ministers of the Eucharist

Lay Ministers of the Eucharist assist the Priest with the distribution of Holy Communion during the Mass. They may also take Holy Communion to members of the parish who are unable to attend Mass because of ill-health or incapacity. Very occasionally, experienced Ministers may preside at "Eucharistic Services" of the Word and Holy Communion, which take the place of Mass when no Priest is available. Because of the sensitive nature of these ministries, new Ministers are usually commissioned at the invitation of the Parish Priest. Members of the parish are, however, always free to propose names of potential Ministers to the Parish Priest in confidence.