Be a servant and a leader

As members of the Body of Christ, we are called to actively participate in liturgy through presence, ritual action, prayer, silence, and song. Some are also called to participate as liturgical ministers: to serve as ministers of hospitality, altar servers, lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs), and musicians.

How can I get involved?
Read over the descriptions of the liturgical ministries and pick ones that match your interests and gifts.

  • Attend the fall info session(s) and subsequent formation sessions (to be announced!).
  • Even if you have participated in a ministry before, the info sessions and trainings for Catholic University are required.
  • At the info and formation sessions, learn (and share) skills and give us your Mass time preferences.
  • Be contacted by the liturgy staff regarding a schedule.
  • Serve in your ministry and be a witness of your faith on campus.

  • Ministers of Hospitality

    Greeters or hospitality ministers help to create a welcoming environment at Mass. Their primary responsibility is to welcome all who arrive, handing out programs and hymnals, as well as assisting with offertory collections and processions at Catholic University liturgies. If you are a friendly, welcoming person, your presence and commitment can help all feel welcome at Mass.

  • Altar Servers

    Altar Servers assist with the preparation of the liturgy as well as during the Mass, anticipating the needs of the presider and the liturgy. Confident and experienced servers are integral to a beautifully celebrated liturgy. Servers are needed for both Sunday, daily, and special Masses. If you have ever served at the altar before, or if you have ever wanted to learn, please consider being a part of this important ministry. Experienced and qualified altar servers may receive extra training to become a Master of Ceremonies (MC).**You must be a fully initiated Catholic to be eligible to serve in this capacity.

  • Lectors

    Lectors proclaim the Word of God at liturgies. When we gather together to celebrate the Eucharist, we experience the presence of God in the sacrament of the Eucharist, in the presider, in one another, and in the proclamation of the Word. Readers are needed for all Sunday and daily Masses, as well as special liturgies. A good speaking voice, an ability to read in public, and a willingness to study scripture are necessary. **You must be a fully initiated Catholic to be eligible to serve in this capacity. **Because of the required skills necessary for this ministry, auditions are required to serve as a lector.

  • Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

    Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist priests and deacons in the distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ to the faithful during both Sunday and daily Masses. This is a simple and beautiful way to experience your relationship with the entire Body of Christ and to deepen your relationship with the Eucharist. **You must be a fully initiated Catholic to be eligible to serve in this capacity.

  • Music Ministry

    Be a part of the Music Ministry team for University Masses each Sunday, on Holy Days and for Special Masses. Singers, pianists, organists, cantors, guitarists, and solo instrumentalists are invited to participate each week.

    Music Ministry at our 11:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Masses in St. Vincent de Paul Chapel consists of rotating cantors, accompanists, and instrumentalists. Music Ministry at our 4 p.m. Mass in the Crypt Church of the Basilica consists of rotating cantors, organists, and instrumentalists. All voices are welcome!

    There are also opportunities to assist with our weekly Praise and Worship Adoration as a guitarist, keyboardist, and/or singer. Special note must be given to the prayerful and humble nature of this ministry.

    If you are interested in being involved in Music Ministry contact our Graduate Assistants for Music Ministry.

  • Liturgical Ministry Schedule

    Forthcoming.