Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (Eucharistic Ministers)
The Eucharistic Ministers is a body of lay people authorized by the Church to help offer the Body and Blood of Christ to the congregation at Mass. This liturgical ministry involves the energies of members who are active in living out their faith and have a deep personal love of the Blessed Sacrament and for the liturgical worship of the Church. All Eucharistic Ministers must be at least 16 years of age and of good faith, having received the sacraments of initiation. They are commissioned by the Diocese. They receive extensive training at the Diocese level. With proper authorization, this ministry recruits qualified members of the Church as the need arises. They also assist the pastor by taking Holy Communion to the sick and shut-ins of the parish.
All cohabitating Eucharistic Ministers must be living within the precepts of the Catholic Church, that is, with the benefits of the Sacrament of holy matrimony and not having been divorced. For further information on this ministry, contact Mrs. Annmarie Alexander at (718) 712-9759.
Lectors
The reading of the Word is a most important part of our liturgical celebration at Sacred Heart. The Ministry of Lector is a work through which the Word (except the Gospel) is proclaimed to the people of God. Our Lectors must be at least 16 years of age, be of good faith having received the sacraments of initiation, have the gift of a good speaking voice, read well and be capable of imparting the word of God in a meaningful way to the congregation. They are assigned to read at Mass at least once a month on a rotating basis.
All cohabitating lectors must be living within the precepts of the Catholic Church, that is, with the benefits of the Sacrament of holy matrimony and not having been divorced. They are trained at the Diocese level and blessed and approved by the pastor. Parishioners, who are interested in becoming lectors, are encouraged to contact Deacon Francois Cajoux at the Rectory. (718) 528-0577 for an interview.