OUR
MINISTRIES
Altar Guild
This ministry is responsible for the decor of the church which enhances our prayerful involvement and meditation during the various liturgical seasons. Altar linens are washed each week. Group meets once a week or more. Volunteers are welcome to share their artistic abilities and interests.
Altar Servers
Youth grades 4 to 12 are eligible to serve weekend as well as other liturgies: weddings, funerals, and liturgies of Holy Week. Your scheduled preference is available.
Baptism
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, if you are interested in baptism, call the parish office to arrange a pre-baptism preparation course. Baptism celebrations are held during the weekend Masses.
Care and Concern
This ministry supplies food and clothing to individuals and families in need. Special emphasis is given to food baskets at Christmas time.
Catechism
St. Mark’s currently offers catechism for children in kindergarten to Grade 9+. We work with children and families to grow the faith of our youth and to prepare the youth for the sacraments of First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion and Confirmation. Catechism is offered weekly on Sundays between Masses and requires a commitment of approximately 1.5 hours per week. Materials and support are provided for catechists. There is typically one training night in September. If you are working with children in a Sacrament year, the commitment time may vary.
Catholic Women's League
For women of the parish. It pursues the objectives of the League proposed regionally, diocesan wide and nationally. Our work in the League centres around Faith, Service and Social Justice The group meets once a month.
Lector
The Lector is responsible for proclaiming the first and second readings at the Mass. The Psalm will be read by lector or sung by music ministry. For weekday Masses, the Lector proclaims the First Reading and the Psalm. Preferred scheduling times are available.
Music
Through voice and instrument they lead the congregation in joyful song to the Lord, and enhance prayerful participation. Volunteers practice weekly.
Nursing Home Visits
A liturgy with communion is held every Wednesday, September – May at Kingsway Nursing Home. Designated parishioners are scheduled by the month.
RCIA
Christian Initiation of Adults – a special process is open to adults, and those in their late teens, who presently are not Catholic, but are interested in the Catholic Christian faith. The process offers the opportunity to explore and come to a decision whether God is leading them to this faith expression. Sessions are available upon request.
Sacristan
Sacristan is responsible for preparing the altar for the Mass, ensuring the Lector and greeters are present (and finding a replacement, if required), turning the fans and sound equipment on approximately 15 minutes before Mass and clearing the altar after Mass. Preferred scheduling times are available.
Usher
Ushers extend hospitality and are a welcoming presence to all who attend our Masses. Ushers will collect Sunday offerings from parishioners. Preferred scheduling times are available.