Before the opening hymn begins, parishioners have already prepared the sacred vessels, arranged the worship space, checked the sound system, welcomed people at the doors and made sure everything is ready for Mass.

During the liturgy, other volunteers proclaim the Word of God, serve at the altar, lead the music and assist with the distribution of Holy Communion.

It takes many people, serving in different ways, to help Holy Trinity celebrate the Mass with reverence, beauty and hospitality. The parish’s Liturgical Ministries Fair on September 26 and 27 will give parishioners an opportunity to discover where they could help.

The opportunities include:

• Altar servers, who assist the priest and deacon during Mass and help the congregation worship with dignity and reverence.
• Lectors, who prepare and proclaim the readings so that the Word of God can be clearly heard and received.
• Extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, who assist with the reverent distribution of Holy Communion when needed.
• Sacristans, who prepare the church, liturgical books, vessels and other necessities before Mass.
• Greeters and hospitality ministers, who welcome people as they arrive and help newcomers and longtime parishioners feel at home.
• Music ministers, including leaders of song, choir members and instrumentalists who help lead the congregation in prayer.
• Arts and environment volunteers, who prepare and decorate the church in keeping with the seasons of the liturgical year.
• Media and technology volunteers, who support the sound, computers and livestreaming that help the parish participate in the liturgy.

Not every ministry happens in front of the congregation. Some require a strong speaking or singing voice, while others call for attention to detail, technical ability, hospitality or a willingness to work quietly behind the scenes.

No previous experience is required. Training is provided, and volunteers at the fair can answer questions and connect parishioners with the appropriate ministry coordinator.

The Liturgical Ministries Fair will be held at the information table at the back of the church after the 5 p.m. Mass on Saturday, September 26, and after the 9 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Masses on Sunday, September 27.

You do not need to arrive knowing exactly where you belong. Come to the table, explore the ministries and find out where your gifts could help Holy Trinity worship and welcome others.

Parishioners can also meet some of Holy Trinity’s ministry leaders and learn about their work through the videos at trinitycatholic.net/ministry-videos.