sign in sign up
<<
Home , Crucifer

Trinity Lutheran Church

Guidelines for all Worship Ministries

The Assisting Minister The The Assistants The Greeters The Ushers & Communion Ushers The Crucifer and Bible Bearer The The Guild The Bell Ringer

ROMANS 12: 3-13

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of yourself more highly than you ought to think, but to think with sober judgement, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned. 4For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, 5so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. 6We have gifts that differ according to the grace given to us: prophecy, in proportion to faith; 7ministry, in ministering; the teacher, in teaching; 8the exhorter, in exhortation; the giver, in generosity; the leader, in diligence; the compassionate, in cheerfulness.

9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; 10love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour. 11Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.* 12Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. 13Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. 2 Revised 8/26/14

Introduction These guidelines are designed to help you better understand the roles of our worship assistants. Your participation will put into practice what our Lord Jesus has asked of each of us – and that is to welcome and to serve. Sometimes that can be easy and others times it can make us very uncomfortable.

As Paul’s letter to the Romans states in the 12th chapter, “For as in one body we have many members, and not all members have the same function . . . .” Please read through these guidelines and find a “function” that works for you. It may be something you are comfortable with right away or it may be a function to learn and grow in. Each of us has our own unique set of God-given gifts. These ministries can provide a way to share and mold your gifts.

Remember this - as you serve, you are also a worshiper. All that we do focuses on worshipping our Creator and Lord – by gathering together, hearing the Word, sharing the Meal, and then going into the world to share the Good News.

Your service will guide our members and guests to a welcoming worship experience.

Know that the and staff of Trinity appreciate and support the commitment you are making and will answer any questions you may have.

3 Revised 8/26/14 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Romans 12: 3-13 ...... Pg. 2

Introduction ...... Pg. 3

Assisting Minister ...... Pg. 5

Lector ...... Pg. 9

Communion Assistants ...... Pg. 10

Greeters ...... Pg. 11

Ushers & Communion Ushers...... Pg. 13

Crucifer and Bible Bearer ...... Pg. 17

Acolyte ...... Pg. 19

Altar Guild ...... Pg. 21

Bell Ringer ...... Pg. 25

Helpful Church Vocabulary ...... Pg. 26

Seasons of the Church Year ...... Pg. 28

Wrap-Up ...... Pg. 29

How We Worship ...... Pg. 30

John 13: 12-17 ...... Pg. 31

4 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE ASSISTING MINISTER

Assisting Ministers are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Assisting Minister. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Assisting Minister’s role in worship.

The Assisting Minister is an extension of the Pastor in leading the worship service. You are another set of eyes, ears, and hands that bring the Word and Sacrament to those worshipping at Trinity. Your role is very important.

Be attentive to the worshipping assembly. From where you are placed during worship, you are able to see the congregation that is gathered. Your observations can help us better serve those who are with us on Sunday mornings.

Be attentive to the Pastor. The Pastor may need your assistance in any number of ways.

Be attentive to yourself. Remember, you are there to worship also!

A step-by-step guide follows about the logistics of the worship service. Please let a staff member know if you have any questions or need clarification.

 Prepare before Sunday morning! You will be given a copy of the liturgy prior to Sunday morning. Please be aware if there is something happening in worship that will need special instruction (i.e. baptisms).

5 Revised 8/26/14  Arrive about 20 minutes before worship begins so you have time to ask any questions. Make sure you have everything you need to proceed through the service with ease. (hymnals, worship folder, prayers, etc.). Please robe in one of the white that can be found in the choir room. Please ask if you need assistance.

 Enter the sanctuary and be seated with the pastor on the front pew for morning announcements. If it is a Festival Sunday, wait in the back of the nave with the choir for the procession. Have the hymnal you need for the opening hymn. You will move to the altar by standing on the pastor’s right from either location. Reverence the cross and then move to your chair.

 Know when to stand and sit in the service. Always speak, with a strong, clear voice. Stand behind the altar for all prayers you pray throughout the service and at the lectern if you also read the lessons and lead the psalm. Make sure that you are near a microphone so all can hear. A microphone headset is available if you are comfortable using one. Please arrive early to get this.

 A choir member or other assigned person will serve as (lead & Hymn of Praise if included in the day’s liturgy). If you wish to serve as Cantor, please let the Director of Worship & Music know so that you are fully prepared to lead this part of the worship service. Stand behind the altar to lead the Kyrie and Hymn of Praise if you are serving as Assisting Minister and Cantor for the day.

 A lector will read the assigned scripture lessons for the day. That may be you or another assigned person. Be aware of who that person is. If that person is not at worship that day, you may need to step in so be familiar with the lessons. They will be included in the worship folder you receive prior to your scheduled Sunday.

6 Revised 8/26/14

 The Creed – Before the Creed say, “ Let us join together in confessing our faith using the Apostles’/.” You may move into place behind the altar as the hymn is concluding. The Apostle’s Creed begins –“I believe in God… The Nicene Creed begins – “We believe in one God…”

 The Prayers of Intercession are the responsibility of the Assisting Minister. Prayers of Intercession are given to you prior to the service. Please feel free to change and add to these prayers. The Assisting Minister’s role is one of intercessor, a minister who raises in prayer issues of importance to the faith community. The Holy Spirit works through you as you raise concerns important to the congregation. Your insights and changes to the prayers enhance our prayer life together. Please remain with the Pastor behind the altar for the prayers.

 The Sharing of the Peace – Feel free to move around and share God’s peace with the congregation and choir.

 Be aware of the acolyte’s role in the worship service. Most of our young volunteers have questions especially about the collection of the offering. Answer them quietly, quickly and concisely. Discourage the acolyte from trying to hold long conversations and be aware of their attitude and posture. Gentle reminders are helpful to them.

 Offering Prayer – Before the Offering Prayer, ask the congregation to “Please stand.” Then “Let us pray . . .”. You will be behind the altar for this prayer. When the prayer is concluded, you may move to your place in front of your chair, facing the altar – not the congregation - as the pastor continues with the communion liturgy.

7 Revised 8/26/14  Communion – You will assist in the distribution of communion. Please assist the Altar Guild person (normally Barb McComas) in passing out the to the other assistants. Be aware of placement of all people so you can help the distribution flow smoothly. Communing for all assistants will take place at the altar before the assembly has communed. The pastor will commune last after the assembly. (See more specific information in the communion assistant guidelines.)

 Once communion is over, be ready to share the communion prayer. Please move behind the altar for this prayer. You can remain there for the . Begin the prayer with “Let us pray . . .”

 You will exit to the rear of the nave during the last hymn. Follow the Pastor’s lead.

 Be prepared to lead the from the back of the nave. Have your worship folder ready and give the dismissal immediately after the conclusion of the final hymn. Speak with clarity and strength.

 Please greet the worshippers with the Pastor.

 Return your hymnal to your chair in the sanctuary area.

 Hang your up neatly.

8 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE LECTOR

Lectors are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Lector. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Lector’s role in worship.

Lector is for , “either out-loud or not”. The lector’s role in the worship service is to share the scripture from the , the Psalm and a passage from the letters () written by followers of Jesus’ teachings found in the New Testament.

The assigned lector will receive the appointed scripture for the day. You are asked to read through and prepare for an eloquent delivery of these sacred words.

An appropriate way to introduce the lessons is as follows:  The First Reading is from the _____ chapter of ______beginning with the ____ verse.  Together, let us read responsively Psalm _____.  The Second Reading is from the _____ chapter of ______beginning with the ____ verse.

If you are comfortable expanding the introduction, you may begin with something similar to this: “The Second Reading is from the _____ chapter of Paul’s letter to the Galations” . . . , please do so..

A book of pronunciations can be found on the shelf in the lectern to help you with complicated names or words that you may encounter.

Please contact the pastor or a staff member with any questions. 9 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE COMMUNION ASSISTANTS

Communion Assistants are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Communion Assistant. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Communion Assistant’s role in worship.

The role of the Communion Assistant is exactly as stated. You will assist with the distribution of the Sacrament of Holy Communion.

As “” is sung, come forward to the altar. At the traditional service, all communion assistants will commune at the altar prior to the assembly. Then each will be given a and pall noting whether it is wine or grape juice. For the Raise Up Praise Service!, the communion assistant will come forward immediately following the invitation to communion.

The person with the pouring chalice of grape juice will move to the farthest point closest to the wall in front of the and behind the . The two pouring chalices of wine will follow in line. The person with the common cup of wine will be last – next to the pastor at the aisle. As each communicant comes forward, you will say, “The shed for you”. Another assigned assistant will refill your chalice when emptied.

Be aware – that one of the people with the pouring chalice of wine may need to go to with the pastor into the congregation to commune anyone who is unable to come forward. Be sure to take an individual cup(s) with you. The advice to all – WATCH and communicate with one another.

10 Revised 8/26/14 Communion is distributed by for the Raise Up Praise service. We use one chalice with two wells in it – one for wine and one for grape juice.

After all who have come forward have communed, the assistants may return to their seats. Chalices will be handed to the Altar Guild representative or placed on the table based on given direction. The Assisting Minister will assist the Pastor in communing those in the congregation who are unable to come forward by taking a pouring chalice and communion cups with them where directed. The Assisting Minister will then commune the Pastor last. For the traditional service - Individual cups will be available for those who prefer to not use the common cup.

THE MINISTRY OF THE GREETERS

Greeters are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Greeter. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Greeter’s role in worship.

“The Greeter is the vehicle through which the congregation can provide to its own people, and especially to newcomers, a personal expression of Christian warmth and welcome.”

No other assignment is more one-on-one than the ministry of a church greeter. It is a one-another ministry, face-to-face, heart- to-heart with the people you are called to serve. Greeters are one of the first people others meet when they walk in the church door.

It is very important that greeters (and ushers) are positioned in the narthex and nave at least 20 minutes before the worship service is to begin. Be near all doors. If it 11 Revised 8/26/14 is a beautiful day, you could stand outside the door. A proven fact is that most guests have made a decision to return before the service even starts.

ACCEPT ONE ANOTHER: The ministry of mutual acceptance – unconditional love – God’s grace. Have no thoughts of prejudice, color or status. We do not know the baggage another person may be bringing with them to worship. You will be the first person our guest encounters. Be attentive, be polite, be hospitable. Do not react to a harsh word or a bad mood. RECEIVE THE PEOPLE!

ENCOURAGING WORDS: Try to come up with words that our guest or member will remember. Inquire after other family members. Ask about the new grandchild. Express genuine delight that they are worshipping with us this day. Be sensitive and alert to those around you but also concentrate on each person one at a time.

KINDNESS: Introduce yourself. Don’t fake a smile. Your body language will speak volumes even if you don’t. Make a point to know the person’s name and use it during the sharing of the peace and as they leave worship. Make a mental connection to help you remember the name. When you can, introduce our guest to the pastor.

UNCONDITIONAL GOODWILL: Express unconditional love (agape love) today. Do not expect anything from our guest. You are the giver today.

KNOW YOUR CHURCH: What questions might you be asked by our guests? Do you know the answers? If you are asked a question and aren’t sure of the answer, be sure to follow up and get the answer before they leave.

SERVE ONE ANOTHER: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.” Col. 3: 23-24 12 Revised 8/26/14 CONCERNING YOURSELF: Have a pleasant face and a prayerful attitude. Be the kind of greeter you would want to encounter inside a church on Sunday morning. You are called to be faithful to Christ. Remember your primary duty as a greeter is to serve the Lord!

(Source: The Greeter’s Manual, copyright 1993 Zondervan Publishing House)

“DO NOT FORGET TO ENTERTAIN STRANGERS, FOR BY SO DOING, SOME PEOPLE HAVE ENTERTAINED ANGELS WITHOUT KNOWING IT” Hebrews 13:2

THE MINISTRY OF THE USHERS AND COMMUNION USHERS

Ushers are Liturgical Ministers – You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Usher. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Usher’s role in worship.

USHERING IS A MINISTRY!! Ushers are ministers of hospitality – to serve all who enter these doors for worship thus enabling the congregation to worship with reverence and to enjoy the fellowship of our Christian community. Be warm and genuine – be quick with a smile. Let the congregation know through your efforts that you are caring, helpful and accommodating. Hospitality is extended to all who are in attendance.

Ushering is an Evangelism Ministry. You are an automatic evangelist to those walking in our doors. How you conduct yourself, how you deal with people, your appearance, your hospitality, your reverence and devotion in the liturgy impact how worshipers react to Trinity and to our mission.

Ushers are Worshipers. Be an active participant in worship. 13 Revised 8/26/14 BEFORE THE SERVICE: Please arrive 20 minutes before the worship service is to begin. You will be made aware at that time of any special instructions needed for the service that day.

Spot check the narthex and nave making sure all old worship folders are thrown away and the hymnals are neat and orderly.

Have ushers stationed at all doors.

Be prepared to give clear and concise directions for questions that may be asked (coat rack, restrooms, etc)

Know where to find the first aid kit, blood pressure cuff and phone if an emergency arises.

SEATING: Hand each worshiper a worship folder for the day as they arrive.

Encourage members and guests to fill the front seats.

Be deliberate in seating guests near members who are prepared to offer hospitality and assistance during the worship service.

Be alert for worshippers who are physically challenged so that we may be able to address any needs.

Know of any reserved seating so that guests don’t inadvertently sit in that section.

Conversely, if something special is occurring during worship (i.e. baptism, confirmation), question guests if they are looking for someone in particular and should be seated in the reserved area.

Be prepared to offer overflow seating as necessary keeping in mind safety concerns and compliance with fire laws.

Seating latecomers – Be aware of the times in the service when you can seat latecomers in the least distracting way. If 14 Revised 8/26/14 necessary, please ask the person to wait until an appropriate time to be seated. Suitable times: during the prelude, during announcements, during hymns, during liturgical song. Please try to avoid seating during prayers, or while the scripture is read. If they arrive during the , show them the closest seat in the back.

Encourage people to move into the nave if the service is scheduled to begin in less than 5 minutes. Announcements are scheduled to begin no later than 8:55 a.m.

Please be seated in the back of the church using the chairs provided or one of the last pews. This is so you will be available and have a visual of the congregation should a need arise.

OFFERING: Please check with your fellow ushers as to who will be at each aisle. Do this before the service begins to avoid confusion later. Another thing to decide beforehand will be which ushers will bring the bread and wine forward. Know who will have the plates and who will present the elements.

As soon as you are in your aisle places, please process forward together. The choir will begin the anthem as you are coming forward. The acolyte will be in place for you to receive the offering plates. At the altar rail, reverence the cross, then take the plates.

Once you have the plates, turn together proceeding down the aisle, going from row to row, carrying the plate in your right hand about waist high. It is suggested that the ushers on the OUTSIDE aisle pace the receiving of the offering. They can see each other. The ushers in the center aisle move along following the person at the other end of their row; therefore, you won’t need to be constantly turning your head to see where the other side is. Trust your partner.

15 Revised 8/26/14 After the offering is collected, organize yourselves for the presentation of the offerings. The ushers carrying the plates (with both hands) will be first with the ushers carrying the bread and the wine behind them. You do not have to wait for the anthem to conclude!! As soon as you are organized, immediately bring the offerings and bread/wine forward. At the altar rail, the front ushers will pass the offering plates to the acolyte, then move to the outside for the next ushers to pass through. Those ushers will proceed to the altar, and reverently place the elements on the altar. After the elements are placed on the altar, all four ushers (from where you are standing) will reverence the cross together. The ushers at the altar will then turn and process to the back, with the “Plate ushers” falling in behind them to go to the back of the nave.

POST COMMUNION: As the Sending Hymn is sung, prepare for the dismissal of the congregation - open doors, clear any blocked pathways. When the congregation is dismissed, be ready to again greet the congregation as they leave. After the congregation has left the nave, please do a visual check of the pews and hymn racks. Neatening and straightening of the pews is appreciated especially for those attending the next service.

COMMUNION USHERS Communion Ushers assist the congregation in coming forward for the distribution of Communion. Two ushers for each side of the center aisle will begin in the back of the church and will guide the worshippers on when to proceed forward. You will alternate side to side dismissing a few rows at a time.

The Adult Choir communes first and then the congregation. The Communion Ushers will commune after the last of the congregation is ushered through. The Communion Usher will also let the Pastor know how many people in the congregation should receive communion at their seat.

16 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE CRUCIFER & BIBLE BEARER

Crucifers & Bible-Bearers are Liturgical Ministers – You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the roles of Crucifer and Bible-Bearer. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into their roles in worship.

The crucifer is the person who will reverently carry the cross of Jesus Christ during our Festival Sunday processions. The bible- bearer will carry the Bible showing that God’s word is in and among the people.

Before the Service: The crucifer and bible-bearer should report to the Social Hall no later than 15 minutes before the worship service is scheduled to begin. You will need to be robed. Robes can be found in the Choir Room.

The crucifer should get the from the sanctuary. The Bible-bearer will get the Bible from the pulpit.

Make sure you have a hymnal and worship folder on your chairs.

PROCESSION: The crucifer & bible-bearer (if scheduled) will go to the back of the church with the choir and lead the procession with the processional cross and the Bible immediately behind. You will carry the cross as high and as straight as you can. Remember – Jesus died on the cross for you. The Bible will be held high over your head.

The procession begins as the congregation starts to sing the opening verse of the Entrance Hymn. You will proceed down 17 Revised 8/26/14 the aisle, then walk slowly to the top of the steps, turn and face the congregation. The Bible-Bearer will stand immediately to the crucifer’s right also facing the congregation. After the pastor and assisting minister have reverenced the cross and moved to their seats, you may then carefully place the cross in its stand and go to your assigned seat. The bible-bearer will place the Bible on the pulpit.

GOSPEL PROCESSION: If the service includes a procession, you will be notified. At the time of the reading of the Gospel, the crucifer will get the cross, then lead the Bible-Bearer and pastor to the center of the aisle where you will turn and face the altar. The Bible-Bearer will stand immediately in front of the crucifer holding the Bible for the reading of the Gospel.

After the reading is concluded, the pastor and Bible-Bearer will move to the side to allow the crucifer to pass to lead the procession back to the altar. Both the crucifer and bible-bearer will do as before, turn and face the congregation until the pastor has moved passed. You will then place the cross in its stand and return to your seat. The Bible will be placed on the pulpit.

COMMUNION: You will commune with the other worship assistants for the day.

RECESSION: At the start of the last hymn, the crucifer and bible-bearer will take their places at the top of the steps just as was done at the beginning of the procession. Stand straight and tall holding the cross and Bible high. On the nod of the Director of Music, you will lead the procession to the back of the church. At the back door, the crucifer and bible-bearer will turn and face the altar still holding the cross and bible high. After the dismissal, you may place the cross in its stand and place the Bible on the pulpit. Hang your robes neatly.

18 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE ACOLYTE

Acolytes are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Acolyte. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Acolyte’s role in worship.

The acolyte (derived from the Greek word akolouthos) means attendant or helper. The acolyte will perform the duties of candle lighter, assist in the presentation of the offering and in the distribution of communion.

BEFORE THE SERVICE: The acolyte should report to the Social Hall no later than 15 minutes before the worship service is scheduled to begin. You will need to be robed. Robes can be found in the Choir Room. You will also need time to be advised of any special duties during the worship service.

The acolyte should also check with an adult to light the taper if they are uncomfortable using the lighter or matches.

Make sure you have a hymnal and worship folder on your chair.

THE SERVICE: The acolyte will light the altar candles and any other candles appropriate to the day during the prelude and then be seated.

The acolyte will proceed to the middle front of the altar with the lit taper, reverence the cross, and then light the lectern candle, reverence again, then light the pulpit candle, and reverence the cross again. Return the taper to its holder and sit. Be aware of your attitude and posture in worship. Sit straight and tall. Participate fully in the worship service

19 Revised 8/26/14 The Offering: The acolyte will carry the four offering plates down to the altar rail, standing center. It is easier for the ushers to take the plates from you if you divide the plates (two and two) with your fingers. Return to your seat.

After the offering has been collected, watch for the ushers to come forward with the plates and communion. As they are coming forward, pick up the alms basin and go again to the altar rail. The ushers will place the plates in the alms basin. You will then turn around, go straight up the steps to the altar, raise the plates as high as you comfortably can in offering to the Lord. You will then place all the plates on the alms table and return to your seat.

Communion: You will commune with the other assistants. You will then come down to the small table in the aisle where the communion cups are. Keep watch and transfer any empty trays to the side of the table. You may sand next to the front pew on the pulpit side of the aisle. After the congregation has communed, you can then return to your seat.

Extinguishing the Candles: The acolyte will put out the candles at the start of the last verse of the closing hymn, unless otherwise instructed. You will reverse the procedure listed above to extinguish the candles.

AFTER THE SERVICE: Return the taper to its place. Remove your robe and hang neatly. Make sure your hymnal is placed back on your chair.

20 Revised 8/26/14 THE MINISTRY OF THE ALTAR GUILD

Altar Guild Volunteers are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve as part of the Altar Guild. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Altar Guild’s role in preparing for worship.

Members of the altar guild are ministers of the liturgy. This ministry involves preparing the worship space with the furnishings, appointments, vessels, elements, linens, and paraments used in the liturgy. (Altar Guild and Handbook by S. Anita Stauffer)

TRADITIONAL WORSHIP: Basic Set-up: 1. An ELW and WOV will be placed on all chairs in the chancel area. 2. Worship folders are to be placed on the pastor, assisting minister, acolyte, bible-bearer and crucifer chairs. 3. Be sure Pastor’s worship folder is complete with a larger print bulletin. 4. The pulpit Bible and lectern will be marked for the appointed lessons. 5. All candle wicks will be checked before each service. 6. Altar flowers will be placed on the sill behind the altar. No flowers are to be placed on the altar. 7. Linens will be wrinkle and crease free. Iron them as needed. 8. Post the correct hymns and have the appointed day noted.

21 Revised 8/26/14 9. The is to be lit on all Festival Sundays, the Sundays of Easter and for baptisms and funerals.

Holy Communion: 1. If frozen bread is to be used, the bread should be placed in freezer bags and frozen (one loaf, pita, or cake to a bag). 2. Bread should be taken out of the freezer on Friday or Saturday. Cold, frozen, freezer burned or dried out bread cannot be used for Holy Communion. 3. Three pouring chalices and one sipping chalice with four linens are to be placed on the altar. Stained linens are not used on the altar. 4. Empty individual glasses will be placed on the altar for the assistants wishing to use them. 5. If two bread stations are scheduled, all the bread should be put on the to be presented and a second empty paten placed on the altar with the chalices. If the bread is too large to be carried on the paten, then the second loaf can be placed on the altar. 6. Wine is placed in the flagon and left on the shelf in the back of the sanctuary with the bread/paten. 7. If communion is distributed by intinction or if wafers are used instead of bread, a large presentation wafer is to be placed on top of the wafers on the paten to be presented.

RAISE UP PRAISE WORSHIP Basic Set-Up: 1. Make sure a music stand and microphone are placed by the front pew on the pulpit side. A copy of the Worship order should be on the stand as well. 2. The Altar flowers will be placed on small stands in front of the altar. 3. The projection screen should be lowered to just below the edge of the altar.

22 Revised 8/26/14 4. The altar table will be set up by the altar rail on the pulpit side – once step up from the floor.

Holy Communion: 1. Holy Communion for this service is by intinction. 2. Set-up one ceramic paten with wafers and a presentation wafer on the altar table. 3. Have one ceramic double well chalice filled with wine (big well) and grape juice (small well). 4. Have another filled chalice sitting in another paten with wafers arranged around the chalice for the RUP Band to commune.

The projector and band area will be set by assigned people specifically for that purpose. Contact the Director of Worship & Music for any questions concerning this set-up.

FESTIVAL SERVICES: On festival days, in addition to the above listed tasks, the following shall be done: 1. Additional bread and wine needs to be available. 2. If a procession is scheduled for the traditional service, seating will be included in the chancel for the Crucifer and Bible Bearer, along with the Assisting Minister and Acolyte. 3. The altar will be cleaned between services and stained linen replaced as necessary. 4. RE. : Ashes will be placed with in a bowl with Vaseline for imposition. Wipes will be purchased and placed on a plate or tray with the ashes.

BAPTISMS: (Traditional & Raise Up Praise) 1. Move Paschal Candle down to the lower level, behind the altar rail in front of the lectern. Light the candle before the service begins. 2. Place candle, white shell with napkin, and gold shell on the paschal candle stand.

23 Revised 8/26/14 3. Place a very small amount of oil in the gold shell. 4. Put candle box in a white gift bag and place on the altar rail. Verify that a baptismal certificate has been prepared. 5. Fill the baptismal font with warm water before the service begins. 6. Place reserve signs for the predetermined number of pews on the Pulpit side of the sanctuary for the family.

LENT: 1. The large wooden cross is to be brought into the sanctuary and placed on a stand on the pulpit side of the sanctuary. The appropriate color drapes are found in the altar.

BANNERS: Banners that decorate the walls of the nave are designed to express the theme of the season or the day. They should be changed as necessary following the church calendar.

WORSHIP FOLDERS and POWERLINES: Make sure all worship folders and PowerLines announcements are folded and filled with all pertinent information for the day before the worshipers arrive. The Administrative Assistant will have the folders and any inserts prepared for you.

24 Revised 8/26/14

THE MINISTRY OF THE BELL-RINGER

Bell Ringers are Liturgical Ministers You are worship leaders. (Liturgy = The Work of the People)

Thank you for deciding to serve in the role of Bell Ringer. These guidelines are intended to give you insight into the Bell- Ringer’s roles in worship.

Ringing of the Bell: The person assigned to ring the bell for the day will ring it:  5 minutes before the service is to begin, calling the faithful to worship. Ring the bell seven times, pause, and then ring three more time.

 At the time of the Lord’s Prayer: (The pastor requests the door to be open – if inclement weather, open the window)

 Throughout the Lord’s Prayer at all services (except in ) to invite those in the community to join in praying the prayer with us.

There are guidelines for ringing the bell at weddings and funerals. Check with pastor or staff member for that.

25 Revised 8/26/14 HELPFUL CHURCH VOCABULARY WORDS Source: www.elca.org; Wikipedia, www.dictionary.com

Acolyte: one who performs worship duties such as lighting altar candles

Alb: a liturgical that is a white garment coming down to the ankles and usually girdled with a cincture

Alleluia – Praise God!

Alms Table: the table that holds the offering plates

Altar: Marks the presence of God and serves as the table of the Lord.

Altar Rail: Place where people stand to receive Holy Communion

Cantor: (Latin for Cantus), one who leads liturgical singing (i.e. Kyrie and Hymn of Praise)

Chancel: The space located in front of the nave

Cincture: a long, rope-like white cord with tassled or knotted ends, tied around the waist outside the alb usually tied on the right.

Consecration: the declaration that the bread and wine become the body and blood of Jesus Christ; thereby, we are receiving the absolute presence of Christ.

Credence Table: Table that holds the sacramental vessels until they are placed on the altar.

Crucifer: one who carries the processional cross

ELW: Evangelical

Eucharist: (from Greek εὐχαριστία eucharistia), "thanksgiving". Holy Communion

Flagon: Vessel that holds the wine for during the consecration of the Eucharist.

Font: Marks the place of our entry in to the community through our baptism 26 Revised 8/26/14

Hosanna – (Hebrew Hoshana) Save us now

Lectern: A reading desk for the lessons

Liturgy: The Work of the People - our order of worship

Missal Stand: a stand to hold the order of worship for the pastor

Narthex: The church building’s entryway

Nave: The part of the church where worshipers assemble.

Paraments: A vestment for the church, a “decoration”

Paschal: of or pertaining to Easter or Passover

Paschal Candle: a large candle that is blessed and lit every year at Easter, and is used throughout the Easter season, baptisms and funerals. (also known as a Christ Candle)

Paten: Plate that holds the bread for consecration.

Pulpit: Marks the place of the Word and God in its reading and teaching

Reverence: a small bow to the cross showing honor and respect

Sacristy: Place where , paraments, linens and other worship appointments are stored.

Sanctuary: The special space where the altar is placed.

Taper: Candle lighter with wick

Thurible: metal suspended from chains, in which is burned during worship services

Thurifer: one who carries the

Worship Folder: Order of worship showing participation for the congregation and leaders in the worship service (bulletin)

WOV: With One Voice hymnal

27 Revised 8/26/14 Helpful Information about the Church Seasons source: www.elca.org

Advent (Blue) – Latin “to come” marks the beginning of the church year and comprises the four weeks of preparation before Christmas. The season of hope, watchfulness, preparation. (Late November to December 24th)

Christmas (White) – Celebrates the birth of Christ, the incarnation of God. It lasts for 12 days. December 25th – January 5th .

Epiphany (Green) – the day of Epiphany, January 6th, celebrates the revelation of Christ to all nations as represented by the magi who come to worship Jesus. We celebrate The Baptism of Our Lord, Christ as Light of the World, Jesus’ public ministry and the Transfiguration of Our Lord. Length depends on the date of Easter and counting backwards through to determine Ash Wednesday.

Lent (Purple) – a time of preparation before the Easter celebration. The season begins on Ash Wednesday and lasts for 40 days. The forty days of Lent recall the 40 day fast of Jesus in the wilderness after his baptism. It is a time of simplicity and preparation. Our are put away until Easter.

Maundy Thursday (Purple) – Jesus’ with his disciples and arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane

Good Friday (Black) – the day of Jesus’ death by crucifixion

Vigil of Easter (Black to White) – the first celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus. We come from the darkness into the Light. is proclaimed. Held late on Saturday evening. A time for Baptisms and becoming a member of Christ’s church. This liturgy continues into Easter Sunday morning.

Resurrection of Our Lord (Easter – Gold/White) – We celebrate Christ’s resurrection from the dead! Death is conquered.

Easter Season (White) – 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday – each Sunday is a “little Easter”.

28 Revised 8/26/14 Pentecost (Red) - On the day of Pentecost, 50 days after Easter, the church celebrates the gift of the Holy Spirit and the mission of God extending to the whole human family.

Season of Pentecost ( Time - Green) – the time in which we share the mission of God with all nations. Go into the world!

Other Festival Days: The Baptism of Our Lord – First Sunday after Epiphany

The Transfiguration of Our Lord – Last Sunday of Epiphany season

Palm Sunday – Sunday before Easter

Ascension Day – 40th day of Easter

Holy – 1st Sunday after Pentecost

Reformation – Last Sunday of October

All Saints Sunday – First Sunday in November

Christ the King Sunday – the last Sunday of the Church Year

WRAP-UP

As you can see, there is a lot of work in preparing a worship service. Participating as Worship Assistants is an important ministry here at Trinity. You will make a significant contribution to the worship and praise of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Do not take these positions lightly. Your attitude greatly affects the worship service as does the attitudes of the pastor, director of worship and music, organist, keyboardist, and adult choir.

Thank you for agreeing to serve in these ministries. Again, please contact the Pastor or any staff member with any questions about the above described duties.

29 Revised 8/26/14 How We Worship Be a part of God's saving story (Source: www.elca.org)

For Lutherans, worship matters. In fact, worship lies at the heart of how we understand ourselves together. While some of the approaches to worship may differ from one congregation to another, we hold certain things in common.

There is a basic pattern for worship among Lutherans. We gather. We encounter God’s Word. We share a meal at the Lord’s table. And we are sent into the world. But we do not think about worship so much in terms of what we do. Worship is fundamentally about what God is doing and our response to God’s action. Worship is an encounter with God, who saves us through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Think about it like this. God’s Spirit calls us together. God speaks to us through readings from the Old and New Testaments of the Bible, through preaching, prayer, and song. God feeds and nourishes us in a saving way. And God blesses us and sends us in mission to the world.

Taken together, the Word proclaimed and the sacraments -- both Holy Baptism and Holy Communion -- are called the means of grace. We believe that Jesus Christ is present in these means through the power of the Holy Spirit. Sometimes we describe worship as a “gathering around the means of grace.” This is a way of saying that we trust that God is genuinely present with us in baptism, in preaching, and in sharing the bread and wine of Holy Communion. In that sense, Lutherans believe that God’s presence permeates all of Christian worship.

The cross is the central symbol that marks our worship spaces and when Lutherans worship, singing fills the air. The voices of all the people joined in song and the participation of all the people in the worship is a witness to our conviction that in worship we are being drawn in to God’s own saving story.

30 Revised 8/26/14

JOHN 13: 12-17

After Jesus had washed their feet, had put on his robe, and had returned to the table, he said to them, ‘Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord— and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you. Very truly, I tell you, servants are not greater than their master, nor are messengers greater than the one who sent them. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.

31 Revised 8/26/14