The word "liturgy" is derived from two Greek words meaning "work of the people." All people are meant to be active participants in the liturgy. Lay Readers read the lessons at services of Holy Eucharist and Morning Prayer. Lay Chalicists and Lay Eucharistic Ministers share in the distribution of the Eucharistic Feast to members of the congregation in church or at home. Other members serve as acolytes, crucifers, torch bearers, banner bearers, and a host of other functions. Opportunity is available for people to sing with the choir, offering a musical gift to God and the congregation.

Altar Guild

The Altar Guild is an important part of our worship, assisting the clergy in performing the rites of the church. The Altar guild is responsible for all services in the church and The Chapel of the Carpenter. These services include baptisms, weddings, funerals, and other special services in addition to our regularly scheduled celebrations of the Holy Eucharist. The dedicated members of The Altar Guild find this ministry to be rewarding and they enjoy being of service to the church.

There are always opportunities for men and women to be incorporated into The Altar Guild schedule. Members usually work in pairs for each service. Serving on The Altar Guild is a great educational experience as one becomes familiar with the different linens and vessels that are used during services. Their history and function in the liturgy enhance the understanding of what is being done during a service.

Flower Guild

The Flower Guild provides a very important contribution to the worship experience at St. John's. They maintain an inventory of supplies and vases that are used to arrange and display flowers for worship. Each Sunday (except during Lent) flowers are places on the rearedos (the structure behind the main altar). On Palm Sunday, palm fronds adorn that space.

Special occasions provide The Flower Guild an opportunity to exhibit exceptional creativity. On Thanksgiving the Chapel is decorated with autumnal arrangements. At Christmas, trees, poinsettias and other flowers decorate the area around the altar. The parish as a whole takes part in the "greening of the church" on the last Sunday of Advent. The Easter flowers reflect the joy and wonder of the central feast of the church.

Periodically, demonstrations of flower arranging are presented to The Flower Guild. Last year a representative from The National Cathedral gave a workshop.

Most Sunday's the flowers are paid for by parishioners as memorials to loved ones or in celebration of important events in their lives. Being a member of The Flower Guild is an opportunity for a ministry to the glory of God, the enhancing of worship, and in service to the people who wish to have occasions remembered.