The Church is a Field Hospital for Sinners.
Lay Ministry in Our Parish
We believe that all Christians are called to ministry by Jesus.
We believe that the Sacrament of Baptism empowers us as disciples to share in the priestly, prophetic, and servant roles of Jesus.
We believe that all ministers in a leadership capacity are entitled to have their gifts developed through theological study, spiritual reflection, and the nurturing of pastoral skills.
Therefore, in collaboration with the diocese, we provide opportunities for ministers, both commissioned and licensed, to prepare themselves to fully participate as effectively as possible in the Mission of the Church.
Some of the Lay Ministries across the Parish
Sidespeople (Welcomers)
The Scriptures have numerous verses relating to hospitality and making people, especially the stranger, feel welcome by instilling in them a sense of joy and confidence as they enter the church. Our welcomers extend the hospitality of our community to all who pass through the door.
What do they do?
Sidespeople stand in the porch of the church and welcome people to our Sunday Masses. They greet them with a warm smile and pass them a copy of our booklet needed for Mass. If someone is new, they help them orientate themselves, providing key information.
How you can help?
If you like meeting people and have a passion for the church, consider becoming a welcomer and joining the team.
Lectors (Readers of the Old and New Testament)
Lectors are proclaimers of God’s Word during the Eucharistic celebration. In your ministry, you will make Jesus present in a unique way for all gathered. By proclaiming Scripture, you bring the living Word of God to life.
What do they do?
The objective of the lector is not merely to read, but to provide effective proclamation of God’s Word in Scripture, making it living and real for the congregation.
How you can help?
If you feel called to this ministry and have a passion for Scripture, consider becoming a lector.
Servers (Those who assist the priest at the altar)
The ministry of Altar Servers supports the priest during Mass. A good server is attentive, focused, and helps bring the congregation closer to God by their service.
What do they do?
Servers assist in preparing the altar, carrying the cross, candles, and helping with the sacred vessels during the liturgy. They serve at Sunday Masses, weekday Masses, and special liturgical celebrations.
How you can help?
If you feel called to serve and want to grow in understanding the Mass, consider volunteering as a server.
Lay Extra-Ordinary Ministers of the Eucharist & Pastoral Visitors
Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist (EMs) assist with distributing the Eucharist during Mass and bring Holy Communion to the sick and housebound.
What do they do?
EMs administer Holy Communion at Mass and during visits to those unable to attend church. Pastoral Visitors make visits to those who are housebound or hospitalised, bringing prayer and companionship.
How you can help?
If you feel called to this ministry and have a passion for the Blessed Sacrament and serving others, consider becoming an EM or PV. Parish training and diocesan licensing are provided.
Interested in Lay Ministry?
To learn more or volunteer, please contact the parish office.
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Registered Charity (England & Wales)
no. 1203323
The Church is a Field Hospital for Sinners.
We emphasise sacramental worship (the Mass or Holy Eucharist) celebrated in a traditional Anglo‑Catholic style,
with strong orthodox teaching and preaching, supportive pastoral care,
a caring parish family, and responsibility to our community and the greater world.
Address
The Parish Office,
99 Church Road,
Ashford, TW15 2NY
Phone
+44 1784 259093
Email
office@smam.org.uk
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