Altar Guild Team

About

Members of the Altar Guild prayerfully set the table for the Eucharist each Sunday before service. The Anglican Altar is a table rich in meaning and symbol. Each item holds significance and brings depth to our embodied liturgy and how we experience Christ in worship. We are a sensory people, and the Altar Guild lovingly prepares the Eucharistic table with tender care and reverence. The Eucharist is an experience of the real presence of Christ and the Altar Guild ensures the table is properly set for the parish to experience this life-giving experience of Christ.

What to Expect

  • Initial training. Working with the team on scheduling rotational service.
  • Learning the meaning of each sacramental item, and setting them with reverence and care. An informative glossary and training are provided for this ministry.
  • Keeping track of necessary supplies, and reporting when supplies are running low.
  • Arriving at church at 10:10 a.m. to prepare the Altar.
  • Set up: Some lifting is required to carry a few smaller bins from the kitchen to the front of the sanctuary and to set out the larger candle on specific feast days.
  • Placing sacramental items in appropriate places and preparing the table for the Eucharistic feast.
  • Clean up: The informative glossary helps you remember the names of the items in the "stack" and the protocols for disposing of unused sacramental water and wine. 
  • Cleaning of linens, proper repacking, and folding of items. 
  • Clean the gluten-free paten (tray) & chalice to ensure no cross-contamination.

Who is this for?

  • Someone who has an eye for detail, space, and ascetics. For example, an appreciation for where an embroidery faces or noticing when candles need oil refills.
  • Someone who can take a quick inventory each week for parish administration to order supplies in a timely manner. (wine, wafers, candle oil, etc.)
  • Doesn't mind doing laundry! AG members spot-treat any stains on the linens directly after service and then wash and iron the linens at home during the week in order to have them prepared for the next Sunday. 
  • Children age 13 and up may be welcome to sign up if they are willing to be trained and directed by an adult and you feel they are mature enough to handle sacramental items.

Team Leader: Emily Vedra

If you are interested in joining the is team or would like further information, click the button below and fill out the form to get in touch with Emily.