Service groups within the church also provide fellowship opportunities, particularly for newcomers.
The Altar Guild prepares the altar for all worship services and cares for the vessels and linens used in liturgies. Members of the Altar Guild also decorate the church for Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and other special occasions. A fuller description of the Altar Guild is found here.
Co-presidents: Mary Conway and Pat Melrose
Eucharistic ministers participate with the clergy in the liturgy, leading the Psalm and the Prayers of the People, and assisting in the distribution of Communion at every service.
Resources for Eucharistic Ministers:
- Brief Instructions for Eucharistic Ministers
- Introducing the Psalm or Canticle
- St. John’s Larchmont Eucharistic Ministry Instructions (pre-COVID)
- Preparing the Chalice & Glossary of Terms
Coordinators: Jmel Wilson & Wendy McFee
Lectors read the scripture lessons during the liturgy. There is a Pronunciation Guide available in the Sacristy (although if you say it with authority, it generally won’t matter if it’s correct!)
Resources for Lectors:
Coordinators: Jmel Wilson & Wendy McFee
The Adult Choir, directed by Dr. Maki, sings three Sundays a month at the 10 a.m. service (the junior choir sings on the first Sunday of the month) from September through May as well as at all major Church holidays and a choral Evensong service in Lent. Choir members are drawn from the St. John’s community, with support from paid section leaders. New volunteers are always welcome after a relaxed audition. Choir rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings from 7:15 to 9:15 p.m. For more information, please contact Dr. Maki.
Acolytes or altar servers (2nd grade and older) assist in the liturgy by carrying the processional cross, the torches (big candles), and the Gospel book and the St. John’s banner on special occasions, and by assisting the clergy with various tasks during the service. Students in second grade and higher are invited to serve as acolytes, after attending a brief training session. Any children interested in becoming acolytes are encouraged speak to Rev. Lisa or Robin Ingram.
Ushers provide hosting services at 10 a.m. services, passing the collection plate and neatening up the church after the service. Click here to sign up online. Simple instructions are on the signup schedule.
Resources for Ushers:
Coordinator: Lisa Young
If you are interested in serving in any of these ministries or would like more information please call the parish office (914-834-2981) or contact us for more information.
Other members of the St. John’s community simply stand up to fill a need that their skills and services can address.