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Liturgical Ministries

Ministry of Greeters and Collectors

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Ministry of Greeters and Collectors

Established in 2002, the Ministry of Greeters and Collectors welcomes parishioners and visitors, maintains order, and guides the congregation throughout the Holy Mass and other liturgical celebrations.

The Ministry of Greeters and Collectors was established on September 15, 2002, and was originally known as the Ministry of Usherettes.


The primary purpose of this ministry is to offer a warm welcome, maintain order, and guide parishioners and visitors throughout the Holy Mass and other liturgical celebrations.


Purpose


  1. Ministry of Hospitality: They reflect the welcome of Christ, ensuring that every attendee — especially strangers, visitors, or first-time churchgoers — feels that they belong and are safe in the House of God.
  2. Order and Reverence: They help keep the atmosphere orderly, peaceful, and reverent for prayer.


Duties and Responsibilities


Their work is generally divided into three stages: Before, During, and After Mass.


Before Mass


  1. Arrive early (typically 15 minutes before Mass begins) to prepare and pray.
  2. Stand at the church doors to greet people with a smile, a handshake, or a warm greeting.
  3. Help worshippers find vacant seats, especially when the church is full or during major celebrations.
  4. Distribute missalettes, songbooks, or bulletins as needed.

During Mass


  1. Offertory / Collection: They oversee the orderly collection of offerings and donations from the faithful using baskets, then arrange and bring these to the altar.
  2. Communion: They help guide the orderly flow of people toward receiving Holy Communion.
  3. Emergency: They stay alert to assist in emergencies — such as when someone faints, becomes ill, or there is a sudden disturbance inside the church.

After Mass


  1. Help guide the orderly exit of the congregation.
  2. Ensure the safekeeping of the collected offerings.
  3. Tidy up and help maintain cleanliness inside the church (arranging any items left behind, etc.).


Qualities Expected of a Member


Since they are often the first to interact with people, a Greeter and Collector is expected to show the following qualities:


  1. Warm and Friendly: A positive personality, open and approachable in interacting with others.
  2. Prompt and Resourceful: Calm and quick to act, especially in unexpected situations.
  3. Honest and Trustworthy: Especially in handling collections and donations.
  4. Respectful and God-fearing: Deep respect for the liturgy and for the people attending Mass, living out humility.
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