Serve at St. Thomas
There are many ways to serve at St. Thomas. Explore the categories below to see where you may fit!
Ready to get involved?
Our annual Ministry Signups are open! Explore the ways you can share your time and gifts at St. Thomas, then let us know which ministries interest you.
Serve in Worship
Acolytes
Acolytes are students (kindergarten – 12th grade) who carry crosses, candles, and other items in procession and help in a number of ways throughout the service. Serving as an acolyte is a great way for children to gain leadership experience and learn more about Episcopal worship.
Altar Guild
The purpose of the Altar Guild is to prepare the altar for worship. Care of the altar, sanctuary, vessels, and vestments are “behind the scenes” tasks necessary to support the liturgical life of the parish. Care for the furnishings of the church is a vital ministry done for the glory of God. Teams work on a rotating basis and times are flexible.
Lay Eucharistic Minister
Lay Eucharistic Ministers (LEMs) assist the priest during Communion and are fully vested participants in worship. LEMs process with the clergy, verger, and acolytes; assist with the Gospel; and serve the communion wine. LEMs must be baptized members of St. Thomas, complete diocesan training, and be licensed by the diocese.
Lector
Lectors proclaim Scripture and lead the Prayers of the People during worship, helping the congregation hear God’s story and lift our prayers together.
Usher
Ushers welcome those coming to worship, distribute bulletins, give directions, receive the offering, count attendance, and ensure that worship flows smoothly.
Verger
Vergers organize worship leaders and lead the procession at the 10:30 service. Vergers also serve at special services throughout the year.
Altar Flowers
Flower Guild
Flowers help create a beautiful and prayerful space for worship, reflecting the beauty of God’s creation and marking the seasons of the Church year. Our Flower Guild brings together volunteers who share their creativity and gifts to prepare floral arrangements for worship. New volunteers are always welcome.
Sponsor Altar Flowers
Altar flowers may be given in thanksgiving, celebration, honor, or memory of a loved one, with acknowledgements included in the Sunday bulletins. Choose a seasonal arrangement created by the Flower Guild or a custom arrangement by our Floral Artist in Residence.
Serve in Hospitality & Fellowship
Hospitality helps create the welcoming, connected community we value at St. Thomas. From sharing coffee or lemonade after worship to preparing for parish meals, welcoming guests, and helping with special events, these ministries give us opportunities to care for one another and build relationships. Whether you enjoy greeting people, working behind the scenes, cooking, setting up, or simply helping others feel at home, there is a place to serve.
Serve with Children & Youth
One of the ways we serve is by nurturing the next generation of Christians in the faith. We take the care and safety of children and youth seriously. All volunteers must take Safeguarding God’s Children to learn about how to keep children safe at church. Contact Children or Youth Ministry Leaders for more information and current opportunities.
Serve in Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is one of the ways we live out our commitment to care for one another through all the seasons of life. These ministries offer practical help, prayer, encouragement, and connection to members of our parish who may need extra support. From visiting someone who is homebound to delivering a meal, sending a note, praying for others, or walking alongside someone through a challenging season, there are many ways to offer care.
Church Buildings and Grounds, Leadership Committees, and Special Projects
Care for our buildings and grounds.
The Property Committee hosts Building and Grounds Committee hosts inside and outside work days in the spring and fall and invites participation from all ages.
Support the church office.
Office Volunteers Volunteers are needed occasionally to answer phones and assist with mailings or other special projects.
Serve on leadership committees.
Our vestry, finance committee, property committee, personnel committee and endowment committee manage the administrative side of church life.
Find your place in serving at St. Thomas
Our Ministry Signup form includes opportunities to serve both at St. Thomas and alongside our community partners. Whether you have an hour to give, a particular skill to share, or simply a willingness to help, we’d love to know how you’d like to be involved.