Liturgy & Music Commission

This commission is led by a dedicated team of parishioners - Dan Montgomery and Stephanie Andrews and staff - Elayne Bice (organist), Tim McMillin (Director of Music), Elizabeth Popplewell (Assistant Rector) and Mary Cole-Duvall (Rector) – who gather on a periodic basis to create, plan and reflect on our worship services.   Liturgy does have an order, but within that order there is room for creativity and flexibility, which provides many opportunities to tailor services and music to the seasons of the church year.  These services are planned with intentionality and much prayer recognizing that as Anglicans worship is at our core, our center from which everything else flow

The meaning of the word liturgy is the work of the people.  On any given weekend, it takes no less than 50 people to support the services.  The altar guild, the chalice bearer, the lector, the litanist, the acolytes, the choir, the ushers, the flower guild, the oblation bearers, the organist, the choir director, the vestryperson, the priests are committed to serving God by serving you and those who come through our red doors.  There is no stranger in the sight of God so it is our hope that together we provide a place of welcome and wonder.

The next time you are in church, take a moment.  Look around the sanctuary, see the work of those behind and before the bricks and give thanks.  Ask God … is this where I’m to serve?  How can I support those in this ministry?  Perhaps a team member can assist you in your discernment.  Feel free to email them or give them a call.

A Prayer

Holy Spirit living within us, guide our hearts and minds as we welcome today all those who worship with us at St. Timothy’s.  Give us discerning hearts so that every one who crosses our threshold feels welcomed in the spirit of your love.  Help us to recognize each person as an individual sent by you who will enrich our lives.  And most of all, O God, let this be a place of love and acceptance of all your children; in the name of your Child, our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Amen.

 

Ministries in the Liturgy and Music Commission

Acolytes
This ministry is open to the young people of the parish in 4th grade and above.  At St. Timothy's, acolytes assist the clergy during our worship service by lighting candles, holding the Bible during the Gospel, participating in the preparation of the Holy Eucharist, as well as many other important functions. Acolytes serve in teams of four, consisting of a First Server, a Crucifer, and two Torchbearers each Sunday during the 10:15 a.m. service and at other special services throughout the year. Each acolyte position has specific and distinct functions for which the acolyte will be trained before serving. We welcome all young people to join our Acolyte Team.
Contact: Maureen Hada 267-9244 or Liz Brennan 222-6920

Altar Flower Committee
This committee provides the altar flower arrangements for Sunday worship services, funeral services and luncheons and special services throughout the church year.

The committee’s work helps others in the parish remember loved ones and special times in their lives through the flower arrangements. Volunteers purchase the flowers and then come to the church to arrange them for the altar area.  During the year we will gather together as a large group to plan special holidays such as Easter and Christmas. The Altar Guild reimburses the Flower Committee member for the cost of the flowers when the receipts are turned into the church office.

All newcomers are welcome. Join us and put your creative talents to work to enhance our worship experience.
Contact:  Jennifer Irwin 331-3991 or Linda Anderson 225-6751

Chalice Bearers/Lectors/Litanists
Over two dozen lay persons enrich St. Timothy’s worship services as chalice bearers, lectors, and litanists.  Chalice bearers assist the celebrant by serving communion wine.  Lectors read the scripture lessons, and litanists lead the congregation in the prayers of the people. These ministries serve the three regular services each weekend, special services of the Church year like Christmas and Holy Week, and occasional services such as funerals and weddings. Assignments for regular services are by rotation.  Other services are scheduled based on availability. St. Timothy’s is blessed to have such active lay participation in its worship. At the same time, those who serve in these ministries find their worship experience is deepened by their involvement.  
Contact:  Dan or Jana Montgomery 440-0632

Music Ministry
God is glorified and spirits are lifted by our music ministries at St. Timothy's. The Music Ministry at St. Timothy's is served by the St. Timothy's Chancel Choir, the Sounds of Joy Children's Choir, and various instrumental and vocal musicians who volunteer their time in service to St. Timothy's. New members are ALWAYS welcome! Come join us and make a joyful noise to the Lord! more
Contact:  Tim McMillin 515/321-7327 or email

St. Martha’s Altar Guild
The St Martha’s Altar Guild is the service done “behind the bricks”. The quiet work done prior to each service and post each service, is performed by St. Martha’s Altar Guild. These men and women share their time and talents to ensure the Altar is prepared and cared for with sincere devotion and dedication.  They assist with baptisms, weddings, and funerals in addition to taking care of the altar and its vestments for all worship services. more   
Contact:  Melissa Dunagan 223-1982

Ushers
Responsibilities of ushers are to greet the congregation and visitors as they arrive, to hand service bulletins, collect offerings during the service and attend the pews as the congregation receives communion. This ministry is a crucial component of helping newcomers and visitors form a positive first impression of St. Timothy’s. Persons considering becoming an usher should have an outgoing personality (or be willing to develop one!) And enjoy meeting and welcoming people. Ushers will be scheduled to serve approximately once every two weeks or three weeks. In addition, available ushers will be scheduled occasionally to serve at weddings, funerals or other special functions. Training and an usher’s reference manual are available. 
Contact: Don Payne 225-8345