Worship
Worship is the response of the People of God to the Father’s invitation to be one with Him, expressed through the Church’s official liturgy, as well as through other prayers and devotions. Our worship is directed to the Father, through the Son, in the unity of the Holy Spirit. All the ministries related to the prayer of the Church are included in this category.
Liturgical Ministers
If you are interested in assisting with any of the following ministries, please reach out to Joanne Denyer at jdenyer@stjoesylvania.org
Altar Servers
An altar server assists the priest during the liturgy by carrying the cross, holding the Missal, preparing the altar, and helping with other tasks to support the smooth celebration of the Mass. This ministry is open to all starting in the 5th grade. Fill out this application if you are interested.
Ushers
An usher is a pillar of hospitality. They greet parishioners, help with seating, take up the collection, and assist with the flow of Communion to ensure a smooth and respectful liturgy.
Eucharistic Ministers
Lay ministers assist in distributing the most Holy Communion during our weekday and weekend Masses.
We are also in need of lay ministers to bring communion to homebound parishioners and those in care facilities.
Lectors
Parishioners are trained to proclaim the Word of God during our liturgical celebrations.
Sacristans
Under the direction of the clergy, a sacristan would assist in the preparation of the liturgical celebration.
Greeters
A greeter welcomes parishioners as they arrive, offering a friendly presence and helping create a warm, inviting atmosphere for worship.
Current Liturgical Ministry Schedule
If you are currently participating in one of the above ministries, please use the link below to view your schedule.
Liturgy Screen Projection
This is an easy way to help during Mass. The slideshow for Mass displays song lyrics, prayers and instructions, helping people participate better. It makes our liturgy easier to understand and takes away limitations to our prayer.
Music Ministry
If you are interested in participating in any music ministry, please reach out to Libby Saxton or Dean Tartaglia.
Libby Saxton, Director of Music Ministry // lsaxton@stjoesylvania.org
Dean Tartaglia, Music Ministry Assistant // dtartaglia@stjoesylvania.org
Adult Choir
This choir is open to teens and adults, and sings a variety of sacred music from classical to contemporary in a four part harmony. The adult choir leads music at the 10am Sunday Mass September through May as well as feast days and special holidays. This group is a great place to grow and learn and praise God as part of a musical family! Rehearsal is on Thursdays from 7-8:30pm.
Contemporary Ensemble
This group (open to teens and adults) plays a variety of sacred music with a contemporary flare. From hymns to praise and worship, the contemporary ensemble plays and sings from their hearts. We are currently in need of a percussionist and more singers. This group is a great place for those that love music with a beat! Rehearsals are on Tuesdays from 7-8:30pm, and sings at the noon Mass on Sundays.
Children's Choir
We are thrilled to be able to bring back the Children's Choir this year! Open to 3rd-8th grade students, the Children's Choir is a place to find our voice and listen to others while praising God! Rehearsals will be on Thursdays.
Follow this
link to sign up.
Cantors
A cantor is a song leader and psalmist. They are needed for every weekend Mass, funeral, and wedding. Cantors must be able to rehearse on their own and come prepared to rehearse with the accompanist. Cantors are open to teens and adults.
Resurrection Choir
The Resurrection Choir is a profound ministry to the parishioners of Saint Joseph at a very difficult time in their lives. It has been and remains a great gift to our parish community. Libby will email the choir with the music a couple of days before the funeral and then we meet 20 minutes before the funeral to rehearse quickly if necessary. Funerals are usually scheduled during a weekday morning.
Special Mass Support
Rosary Group
Gather with fellow parishioners to pray the Rosary. Groups meet on Mondays at 7pm and Thursdays at 8am in the Holy Family Chapel.
All Soul's Day
The All Soul's Day Mass is a special Mass in which we remember those who have passed during the year, and their names are called out during the liturgy. We also have candles for each of the deceased relatives who attend the Mass. Volunteers are welcome to assist with set up prior to Mass. Contact Joanne Denyer at jdenyer@stjoesylvania.org with any questions.
Anointing Mass
The Anointing Mass is offered once per year (the Sacrament of Anointing can be done anytime) and is a special Mass to pray for those afflicted with illness. Keep an eye on the bulletin for the upcoming date. Contact Joanne Denyer at jdenyer@stjoesylvania.org with any questions.
Eucharistic Adoration
Consider spending time in the Eucharistic Presence of Christ in the Holy Family Chapel. Adoration is available every Wednesday and on the first Friday of the Month from 7:15am-5:15pm. You can sign up for an hour on Adoration link on the homepage of the Parish website.
