Liturgy

This committee is engaged in the study of liturgy by observation, consultation with liturgy documents, and related articles. The committee assists in the development of special liturgies and is involved with issues of art and environment during the various liturgical seasons and liturgical events.

Lectors proclaim the scriptures to reveal the power of God's Word to the assembled faith community at Sunday, holiday, and other liturgical services. You must be a registered member of the parish and have received the Sacraments of Baptism and the Holy Eucharist to be a Lector.

Lectors must prepare for the readings, reviewing the context of the passage and pronunciations. They should arrive at Church early enough to read the Prayers of the Faithful before Mass and should dress according to the dignity and respect due to the Liturgy. Lectors are generally scheduled to read at one Mass every 4 to 6 weeks.

We are currently looking for more lectors. If you would like to join this ministry, please contact the Parish Office at 315-539-2944 for more information.

Extraordinary Ministers assist the celebrant with the distribution of the Eucharist during Mass and take Communion to the sick, homebound, or those in hospitals and nursing homes. You profess your own faith by sharing the Body and Blood of Christ as you serve your brothers and sisters. You must have received the Sacraments of Holy Communion and Confirmation, be at least 16 years old, and be a Catholic in good standing. New Extraordinary Ministers of Communion are welcome to serve in this very special ministry. Any persons who are willing and able to make a commitment to serve at Mass or other special liturgical services should call the Parish Office at 315-539-2944 for more information.

These people serve the community's prayer by helping to make the ritual of the Mass proceed with style and grace. Servers are boys and girls who are regular parishioners and who have already made their First Holy Communion. They remind us at every weekend Mass that in the task of worship there is a place for everyone.

Altar Servers prepare the altar for Mass and assist the Priest during the Mass. Their ministry includes being an example to the rest of the community through their faithful attention and participation during the liturgy. Please contact Fr. Mike at the Parish Office at 315-539-2944, if your child is interested in participating in this very important ministry.

The most important job of an usher is to assist people with seating and make them feel welcome as they arrive to worship at St. Mary's and St. Patrick's churches. In addition, the ushers assist with the collection basket during the offering. If you are interested in serving, please contact the Parish Office at 315-539-2944

Greeters welcome people as they arrive at Mass and coordinate the procession of gifts to the Altar. The greeters also distribute the Church Bulletin after Mass. If you would like more information about how to become a greeter, please call the Parish Office at 315-539-2944.

Adult Choir

A great way to share your musical talents with your parish family. This group is comprised of volunteer members who give of their time and talents to glorify God through the ministry of music.

If you are interested in joining the choir, please contact Jen Cornwell at the Parish Office at 315-539-2944.

Bell Choir

This ensemble is comprised of volunteers who wish to share their time and talent for the enjoyment of our parish community. The bell choir usually performs at special events or Holy Days.

If you think you would enjoy being a member of this ensemble, please contact Jen Cornwell at the Parish Office at 315-539-2944.

Cantors

This ministry is designed to help lead the members of the congregation in prayer through song. If you are musically talented and would like to participate as a Cantor, please contact Jen Cornwell at the Parish Center at 315-539-2944.

Folk Group

Originated at St. Mary's in 1975. The style of music was considered contemporary in the sense that it reflected a simple style and lyrics with the use of guitars, wind instruments, and occasional percussion instruments. The group's mission is to enhance the celebration of the Eucharist by providing the Congregation with music that encourages their participation through singing. If you are interested in serving, please contact the Parish Office at 315-539-2944.

Instrumentalists

Organists, pianists, most brass and woodwinds, and guitar are welcome and sure to find a spot with an existing group on a regular basis. If you are interested in serving, please contact the Parish Office at 315-539-2944