Serve at Mass
The Goal
Why serving at mass matters
The primary way in which the follower's of Jesus celebrate the Lord's Day is through the participation in the Eucharist. This act of worship that is enjoyed by the entire parish requires the work of many individuals using their unique gifts and talents in serve to the parish and in worship to God.
Cantor
Cantors intone the Word of God through individual singing as well as leading the congregation. Cantors must have an understanding of the flow of liturgy, be familiar with the parish musical repertoire, have the ability to learn new music on their own and be comfortable leading the assembly. Cantors are usually scheduled twice a month.
To learn more, call the parish office at 816-373-2600.
Choir and bell choir
The St. Mark Adult choir is open to women and men (high school age and older). Voices of all ranges (bass through soprano) are welcome. The choir leads the assembly in a variety of musical styles. The Adult Choir generally meets weekly on Thursday evenings beginning at 6:30. The Adult Choir generally leads music at the 10:00 Liturgy, on most Holy Days, and sings at special events outside of the liturgies. All singers are welcome.
Handbells are a unique form of music where a group of people can come together to form one instrument. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday at 6:30 pm. This group plays for various masses and holy days throughout the year. All are welcome. You do not need to know how to read music to join this group.
To learn more, call the parish office at 816-373-2600.
Altar Servers
Boys and girls, as well as families and adults, are encouraged to serve at the altar. They assist the presider during the celebration of the Eucharist, and there are also special opportunities to serve at weddings, funerals and other prayer services. Students who are in grade four or higher are trained for this ministry.
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist
Ministers are commissioned to assist in the distribution of the Eucharist at Liturgy. The Diocese requires a preparation workshop for those interested in this ministry. Click here for more information:
Greeters
A Greeter’s role at Mass is simple, all we ask is that you greet parishioners as they come in for Mass each weekend. We ask that two people greet at the South Entrance, and two people greet at the North Entrance. A schedule you will receive each month will tell you what door you are assigned to. We ask that you arrive and take your assigned place about 15-20 minutes prior to Mass beginning. When Mass begins, you may take your seat in church.
Gift Bearers
Individuals or families who would like to bring the gifts of bread and wine to the altar during the Eucharistic liturgy are encouraged to sign-up for this ministry.
Lectors
Through this ministry, God's living Word continues to be proclaimed to His people. Persons who can speak distinctly and address the Assembly in a convincing manner are eligible to be lectors. Training sessions and workshops for lectors are provided throughout the year. The Diocese requires a preparation workshop for those interested in this ministry.
Ministers of Hospitality/Ushers
Men and women ushers help build a strong sense of community. They are responsible for greeting people, assisting them in being seated, and taking up the stewardship collection, distributing parish bulletins, and handling emergencies that may occur during services. The ministry of ushers is vital to St. Mark's parish. The Church officially recognizes that this ministry is as important and necessary as Communion ministers, as Lectors, as Musicians, as Presiders. Ushers are the official hosts whenever this parish gathers to pray. Ushers greatly assist the Presider in extending the welcoming hand of Christ to ALL who come here. Ministers are commissioned to assist in the distribution of the Eucharist at Liturgy.