Join the Altar Guild

The Altar Guild is a ministry of the parish responsible for setting up for weekly services and caring for the implements and linens used in worship. 

Volunteers usually take a moment to set up on Saturday, making sure that bread and wine are ready, readings are in place, oil candles are filled, and that the altar is set with the correct liturgical color of the season. After Sunday services, members of the Altar Guild clean up and put everything away. 

Occasionally, groups of volunteers polish silver and brass and organize the sacristy (the room where the implements for worship are located). For holy days like Christmas and Easter, extra time is needed to put flowers in place and to assure that everything is ready for these major celebrations. 

For questions about serving on the Altar Guild, please contact Pastor Elaine at ethomas@allsaintshoboken.org. 

Become an Acolyte

Acolytes are children, youth, and adults who serve on Sunday mornings and at other services. Acolytes carry the cross to lead the procession into worship, light candles, assist the priest in setting the table, and help serve the communion elements.

Serving as an acolyte provides a wonderful opportunity for even young children to participate in worship and know that they are valued as full members of our congregation. At All Saints, children as young as six can serve as acolytes at the 9:00 a.m. Holy Eucharist for Children and Families. 

Children age eight or older may serve at the 10:30 a.m. service, carrying the processional candles or the gospel book. Older teens and adults may carry the processional cross.

Acolytes must attend training and arrive at least fifteen minutes before the start of service in order to vest, or dress, and receive last-minute instructions. An online schedule allows acolytes to volunteer on days that are convenient for them and their families.

For more information about serving as an Acolyte, please contact Pastor Elaine at ethomas@allsaintshoboken.org.

You may find the schedule and sign up here.

Read Scripture

Each week, scripture readings and prayers are read by volunteers from the congregation. The readings are provided in advance, and it is expected that readers will practice in advance to familiarize themselves with the selection and to assure correct pronunciation of names or words. The schedule of readers is managed online so that volunteers may select those days that fit their schedule.

For questions about serving as a reader, contact office@allsaintshoboken.org. 

Sign up here to read at a service.

Help with Hospitality

After each Sunday service, folks are encouraged to stay for a cup of coffee and a treat. This is a chance to get to know one another better and to welcome newcomers. Sign up here to provide a tasty after-church treat (homemade or store bought).