ALTAR SERVERS

Altar Servers are trained to assist the Dominican Fathers of Holy Rosary parish from the reverent and simple weekday Masses to the complexity of the solemn Latin Masses at 11 a.m. Sundays and Feast Days. Older boys who have shown exceptional maturity also learn to assist at the sung Latin Dominican Rite Masses. With the traditional nature of the liturgies and our focus on reverence for the Blessed Sacrament, all servers must be mature and responsible. Parents are the best judges as to whether their sons are ready to begin training in preparation for this service to God and his church, but at minimum, a boy should be at least ten years of age and have memorized the creed, prayers, and responses for Mass. Training is provided by the parish, and after a period of initiation, a boy is assigned to an older server until he is ready to have his name added to the schedule.

If your son is interested, please leave your name and number with the parish secretary and you will be contacted.

LECTORS

Lectors play a critical role in the celebration of the Mass. Their texts are not merely words, or even inspired words, but the Word of God. It is a profound responsibility, and never undertaken lightly. One-on-one instruction is provided before a new lector is ready to begin reading at Mass, and all lectors are asked to attend yearly lector training sessions. Lectors must be fully initiated in the Church, able to practice the readings during the week prior to the Mass at which they have been assigned, and demonstrate the skills necessary for communicating with clarity and competence. Although missals are in the pews, the Word of God is meant to be proclaimed. A congregation ideally should be able to listen attentively, and hear every word. Readers, as well as servers, exercise a genuine liturgical function. No matter how many times a passage of Scripture is heard, its meaning never exhausted If you are interested in learning more about becoming a lector, speak to the parish priest or call Randy Raetz, Head Lector, at 360-571-3546

USHERS

Ushers provide a valuable service. Not only do they assist with seating, take up collections and help ensure orderly flow at the Communion rail, but ushers are the first contact many visitors will have with the people of Holy Rosary. The welcome given by our ushers is extended on behalf of us all, their respect and reverence for the Church and her liturgy reflective of what we most value as a parish family.

Ushers respond in case of emergency, tidy and prepare the church at the conclusion of Mass, distribute the bulletin and maintain order. We are very grateful for their dedication, and hope that you will consider joining them. If you are not able to serve weekly, perhaps you would be able to sign on as a substitute or help with the Dominican Rite Masses or on Holy Days of Obligation. Confirmed men of the parish are encouraged to call the office and leave their names and contact numbers for the Head Usher, Steve Freiling. No previous experience is necessary, as training is provided.