A Sacred Calling: The Altar Guild

Altar Guilds in the Episcopal Church today are groups of women and men who feel called to serve God and his church by caring reverently for the church’s nave and altar. Its linens, hangings, vestments, communion vessels, candles, flowers, and elements of bread and wine are all their responsibility. Housekeeping chores and preparing the sacred space itself is also required. At St. Mark’s, we carry out these responsibilities gladly throughout the seasons of the Church.

A Joyful Sound: Music at St. Mark’s

St. Mark’s has a very active music program. We have a beautiful 1872 Opus 662 Hook and Hastings tracker organ which was installed in August 2009. Along with visiting instrumentalists who play at various services throughout the church year, our choir provides leadership in hymn singing and special anthems each Sunday. At certain times, the Amherst Glebe Arts Response provides Sunday afternoon musical programs of various musical genres. Please see Organ History and The Choir sections.

Choir Friends Wanted!

We would always like to have more members (we have 10 at this time) in the choir at St. Mark’s. We love to sing! We have a big repertoire and a great appreciation for both good church music and for each other. Together with our organist and the occasional guest instrumentalist, we sing God’s praises every Sunday with a loving congregation. We even got a new choir rehearsal room this year! How can we ask for more? Oh, yes – that you come and join us – either in the choir or in the congregation. We’d love to have you!

Lay Leadership at St. Mark’s

Lay Readers serve our Parish when a priest is unavailable. They conduct Morning and Evening Prayer Services. They are licensed by the Bishop, after undergoing training from the rector.

Lectors

Lectors read the lessons during services, whether at the Eucharist or on other Feast Days. They also participate in Morning and Evening Prayer. They must be trained by other lectors prior to their service, but do not require licensure.

Eucharistic Servers

Eucharistic Servers assist the celebrant during the preparation and serving of the elements at the Eucharist. They also function as the crucifer during the processional, recessional and the Gospel Procession. They may assist during the service in other ways at the rector’s discretion. They are licensed by the Bishop, after training from the rector.

Eucharistic Visitors

Eucharistic Visitors bring communion to sick and shut in parishioners. They use elements that have been previously consecrated by the priest. They are also licensed by the Bishop after receiving training from the rector.