A Sacristan is the one responsible for preparation of the sacred vessels, books and other items used in the celebration of the Eucharist. He/she shows up early, sets up everything to enable the Presider and other ministers to celebrate the Mass worthily and well. He/she has a list of items to check off before every Mass including:
- unlocks the outer doors for parishioners
- makes sure the candles are lit before Mass begins
- checks to be sure that the scheduled ministers are available and checked in
- assists the Altar Servers in getting dressed
- sets out the lectionary, Book of Gospels and the Roman Missal
- makes sure the sacred vessels for Communion are set out along with linens
- and makes sure vessels are purified and put away, lights are turned off, and locks up the church
His/her job is one of the most important ministries that we rely on because we strive for a prayerful experience for our parishioners at every Mass.
At this moment, we have two openings for Sacristans at St. Albert the Great, at both the 5:00 p.m. Saturday and 9:00 a.m. Sunday Masses. If you are so inclined and would like to volunteer, perhaps this would be a good way to share your time and talents. Please contact me at the Pastoral Center if you are interested or would like more information.