The Eucharistic Liturgy (the Mass)
It is called the “Source and Summit” of the life of the Church. The Sunday celebration of Eucharist is the center of the parish’s worship life. Daily Mass, the celebration of sacraments outside of the Mass, and private devotional prayer such as Eucharistic Adoration each complement the weekly celebration of the Liturgy. Many gifts and talents are needed to create a vibrant liturgical life at the parish. For information on sharing your gifts in any of our liturgical ministries, contact one of the coordinators listed below.
Usher Ministry
Be the Welcoming face of Our Lady of Fatima! Meet parishioners and welcome newcomers to our parish. Ushers are scheduled once or twice a month. Arrive 30 minutes before Mass begins be sure the worship space looks welcoming, and greet people as they arrive. Assist in taking up the collection, maintain traffic flow during the distribution of Holy Communion, distribute bulletins at the end of Mass, be knowledgeable about our parish and answer questions. If you have the gift for hospitality and enjoy meeting people, this ministry is a great fit for you. To learn about or become a member of the Usher Ministry, contact Jay Noonan
Altar Servers
Children who have received their First Holy Communion may assist in the Mass as Altar Servers. Altar Servers are scheduled once or twice a month after completing a training session. New altar servers are paired with those who are more experienced, to build confidence in learning how to serve at Mass. Click to download the Registration Form For more information, contact [email protected]
AV Ministry
Audio Visual technology is utilized to enhance the experience of Sunday Mass as well as special events held in McGowan Hall. Working with the parish liturgy director, this ministry insures the seamless projection of visual slides as well as maintaining proper sound levels. This ministry is open to high school students and adults. This ministry is ideal for people who enjoy tech, and want to have an impact in adding finesse to everything with sight and sound. Contact Larry Orque to participate in this ministry.
Music Ministry
If you enjoy singing or play an instrument, your gifts can be used to enhance congregational worship at Mass. Contact Larry Orque for information about the choirs at Our Lady of Fatima.
- Adult Choir sings at 11:00 AM Mass and rehearses Monday evenings 7:00 – 9:00 PM.
- Sunday 5:00pm Band provides contemporary praise and worship music for Mass. Rehearsals are Sunday afternoon at 3:00 PM.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
The administration of Holy Communion during the Mass is truly a ministry. It is the ministry of bringing the sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ to the People of God. It is also the ministry of witnessing to faith in the real presence of Christ in the action of sharing in the Eucharistic meal of Christ’s sacrifice. The ministry of the Eucharist should, therefore, be treated with utmost dignity and reverence. These individuals assist at each Mass in the distribution of Holy communion. Anyone who is Confirmed and in good standing in the Catholic faith is eligible for this ministry. For more information, contact Ann Dougherty.
Ministry to Sick & Homebound
This ministry visits and comforts those who cannot take part in the Eucharistic assembly due to age or illness. As Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC), individuals take Communion on behalf of the parish to the sick and homebound. Complete training is provided. EMHCs must be fully-initiated Catholics. For more information, training requirements or to become a member please contact Ema Galvan
Lector Ministry
Lectors proclaim the Word of God at Mass. Anyone who is a Catholic in good standing, high school age and up, may serve in this ministry. Teens who are not yet confirmed must be enrolled in Confirmation preparation. For more information, contact Bob Dougherty.
Sacristans
Sacristans prepare the vessels, hosts, books, and linens for each liturgical celebration. Usually, sacristans are also trained as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. This ministry takes about 45 minutes prior to and after each Mass. Anyone who is Confirmed and in good standing with the Catholic faith is eligible for this ministry. For more information, contact Frances Cahanding
Art and Environment
The Art and Environment Ministry adorns the worship space to reflect the proper liturgical season; i.e., Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, and other major feasts. This creative team usually meets at the beginning of each season. They have a strong sense of fellowship, and thoroughly enjoy their “work parties.” For more information contact Rich Lodyga.
Bereavement Ministry
This ministry accompanies those who are grieving the loss of a loved one. Ministers offer support and comfort by:
- Assisting with planning the funeral liturgy and on the day of the funeral
- Leading the Rosary at the Vigil
- Assisting with post-funeral gatherings
- Walking with the grieving family in the weeks and months following the loss
This ministry is well suited for people who can empathize with those who have lost a loved one, and would like to be a support to those experiencing loss. Email the parish office for more information.
