Worship Ministries
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild prepares the altar, communion vessels and the priests’ vestments for all services, and maintains them between services. They also provide wine and bread for communion. In addition to regular Sunday services, the Altar Guild helps prepare for weddings, funerals, and baptisms, and decorates the Church for holidays and other special occasions.
Lay Ministers
In Episcopal churches, lay people take active roles in our worship services. At Saint Thomas’, these are:
Lay Readers
Lay Readers read the Bible lessons for the day, and, in services without music, they lead the congregation in reciting the psalms and canticles.
Chalice Bearers
Aid in the worship service by joining the Priests and Deacons (ordained clergy) at Holy Communion and administering the Cup.
Worship Leaders
In addition to clergy, lay members are invited to lead services of Morning and Evening Prayer.
Ushers
With a warm and gracious spirit, ushers welcome all people to our services in the name of Jesus Christ. They help those needing assistance, whether because of unfamiliarity with the service, or due to infirmity.
Greeters
Welcome members and visitors with a smile, hug, or handshake as they arrive for worship through the church doors.
Hospitality Ministry
Our hospitality team helps with fellowship by providing snacks to accompany the coffee hour after church.
For questions about Worship ministries, please contact the Parish Administrator at 713.666.3111 or via info@ste.church.
Acolytes
The order of acolytes is one of the most ancient ministries in the Church. Acolytes carry flags, crosses, and banners during the service. They also assist the clergy of Saint Thomas’ with preparing the altar for Holy Communion. Young men and women who have been confirmed (6th- 12th grade) are invited to join this ministry.
Torch Bearers
Torchbearers add to the majesty of our service through the carrying of torches, and are an example of reverent and joyful worship to the entire congregation. The order of torchbearers gives our younger men and women (ages 8-12) the opportunity to become a more active and visible part of our liturgy.
For questions about Acolytes and Torch Bearers, please contact the Church Administrator at 713.666.3111 or via church@stes.org.