Acolytes and Crucifers

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
Acolytes and Crucifers serve in the worship service by assisting clergy, leading processions, and helping maintain reverence and order during liturgy. Their roles are both practical and symbolic, supporting the spiritual life of the congregation.

🛠 What We Do:

Acolytes:

• Light and extinguish altar candles.

• Assist clergy with communion, baptism, and other sacraments.

• Carry the Gospel book during scripture readings (in some traditions).

• Help prepare and clear the altar.

• Support worship by collecting offerings, distributing bulletins, and other tasks.

Crucifers:

• Lead the processional with the cross at the start of worship.

• Signal transitions during the service, such as the Gospel reading or start/end of liturgy.

• Focus attention on Christ and set a reverent tone for worship.

⏰ Time Commitment:

• Assigned for specific services, with training provided to ensure proper understanding of duties.

• Participation schedules are flexible and can accommodate youth and adults.

📣 Current Openings:

• New acolytes and crucifers are always welcome.

• Training and mentorship are provided to all volunteers.

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com

Altar Guild

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Altar Guild cares for the altar, its linens, hangings, chalices, and other sacred items used during church services throughout the year. Members ensure that worship services run smoothly and beautifully.

🛠 What We Do:

• Prepare the altar and trays for Sunday services (8:00, 10:00, and 5:00).
• Set up and clear the altar and credence table for each service.
• Prepare the chalice, paten, wafers, water, and lavabo for communion.
• Wash chalices, lavabo, cruets, and small linens after services.
• Assist with altar preparations for weddings, funerals, and baptisms.
• Decorate the altar for church holidays, including arranging flowers and special candles.
• New members are trained by shadowing experienced members during services.

⏰ Time Commitment:

• Typically, each member is responsible for two Sundays every two months, but schedules are flexible to accommodate vacations and other responsibilities.
• Each Sunday’s duties usually take about one hour, not including attending the service.
• During the summer, duties adjust for the two-service schedule.

📣 Current Openings:
We warmly welcome new members of all ages, men and women. Training is provided by shadowing existing members during services.

📞 Contact:
Candy Johnson – profcandid@aol.com

Building & Grounds

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Building Committee monitors the physical well-being of all church property—including the church building, rectory, playground, and parking lot. The committee addresses maintenance needs, coordinates repairs, and when needed, works with contractors, or prepares grants to secure funding.

🛠 What We Do:

• Assess and monitor the condition of church facilities.
• Respond to issues as they arise.
• Coordinate with contractors and service providers.
• Prepare grant applications when funding is needed for larger projects.

⏰ Time Commitment:
There are no standing meetings. Meetings are scheduled only when issues arise that require evaluation, planning, or decision-making.

📣 Current Openings:
The committee currently has four long-serving members with experience in building maintenance and is seeking two additional members. No prior experience or building knowledge is required—just a willingness to help care for our parish home.

📞 Contact: TBD

Eucharistic Visitors

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
Eucharistic Visitors bring the Eucharist to homebound parishioners who are no longer able to attend Sunday services. This ministry ensures that they remain spiritually connected and fully included in the life of St. Paul’s.

🛠 What We Do:
Eucharistic Visitors make monthly home visits in pairs—one of whom must be a licensed Eucharistic Visitor. Each visit includes friendly conversation, listening to any concerns or prayer needs, and sharing a brief service with prayers and the Eucharist. These visits provide comfort, community, and ongoing participation in Holy Communion.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Each visit lasts approximately 45–60 minutes and can be scheduled on any day that works for both the visitor and the person receiving the visit. The ministry also meets twice a year for brief check-ins and coordination.

📣 Current Openings:
We welcome new volunteers—either those interested in becoming licensed Eucharistic Visitors or those who would like to serve as a visiting partner.

📞 Contact:
Kathy Champagne – kachampagne67@gmail.com

Fellowship

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Fellowship Committee ensures that a welcoming and enjoyable fellowship hour is offered every week, helping build community and connection within the parish.

🛠 What We Do:

• Remind ministries when it is their turn to host.
• Find volunteer hosts for open Sundays.
• Provide refreshments when no host is available.
• Ensure supplies (such as napkins and other essentials) are always stocked.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Flexible. Most responsibilities involve coordination, communication, or helping on open Sundays. Volunteers can also join a call list for occasional hosting needs.

📣 Current Openings:
There is always room for new members! Anyone can join the committee or sign up to be contacted when an open Sunday needs a host.

📞 Contact:
Tammy Shafer – valenhafer@gmail.com

Finance

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Finance Team works closely with the comptroller and bookkeeper throughout the year to ensure that the church’s finances are accurately maintained and responsibly managed. This ministry helps safeguard the financial health and stability of St. Paul’s.

🛠 What We Do:

• Review monthly income and expense statements.
• Review the church’s balance sheets, including endowment accounts.
• Collaborate with the comptroller to monitor financial activity and trends.
• Support the treasurer and Chief Counter in maintaining proper financial oversight.

⏰ Time Commitment:
The team meets monthly for approximately two hours with the comptroller to review financial reports and discuss any issues or updates.

📣 Current Openings:
New members are always welcome! If you are interested in helping, ensure the financial stability of our church—or simply want to learn how our finances are managed—you are encouraged to join.

📞 Contact:
Deb Sexton – treasurer@stpaulsholyoke.org
Mike Bineau – mbcomp19@comcast.net

Fundraising

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Fundraising Team organizes events that raise money to support the church and its outreach programs. These events help strengthen our ability to serve both our parish and the wider community.

🛠 What We Do:

• Plan and organize fundraising events throughout the year.
• Coordinate with volunteers before and during events.
• Provide creative ideas and support to ensure each event is successful.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Monthly planning meetings, plus volunteer coordination and event preparation. Time varies by event but typically ranges from 4–8 hours.

📣 Current Openings:
Volunteers are always needed to help with fundraising efforts—whether planning, setting up, or assisting during events.

📞 Contact:
Trudy Monson – gerttrudy_1011@yahoo.com

Kids’ Church

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
Kids’ Church provides a welcoming and engaging environment where children learn about God’s love through Bible stories, music, crafts, and activities. The goal is to help children grow in faith and feel that they are an important part of our church family.

🛠 How It Meets a Need:
This ministry supports families by offering children a fun and meaningful way to learn about God outside of Sunday worship. It helps build a strong foundation of faith and encourages friendships within the church community.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Classes take place on Saturdays. All lesson materials and guidance are provided to volunteers.

📣 Current Openings:
We are seeking volunteers who enjoy working with children and want to make a meaningful impact on their spiritual growth.

📞 Contact:
Barbara Garriga- BGarriga85@gmail.com

Lay Eucharistic Ministers

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
Lay Eucharistic Ministers assist in the distribution of Holy Communion during church services and bring the Eucharist to homebound parishioners. Their service ensures that all members of the congregation can participate fully in the sacramental life of the church.

🛠 What We Do:

• Assist During Worship: Help distribute consecrated bread and wine, and occasionally prepare or clean vessels used in the service.

• Bring Communion to the Homebound: Visit parishioners unable to attend services due to illness, age, or disability, maintaining their spiritual connection to the church.

• Support Clergy: Enable clergy to focus on other aspects of worship and pastoral care, especially during large services or special events.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Flexible; volunteers may serve during scheduled services and/or make regular visits to homebound parishioners. Training is provided.

📣 Current Openings:
New Lay Eucharistic Ministers are always welcome. Volunteers receive training and guidance to serve effectively and reverently.

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com

Lay Readers

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
Lay Readers assist in worship by proclaiming scripture, leading prayers, and supporting the liturgy. Their service enriches the spiritual life of the congregation and fosters active participation in worship.

🛠 What We Do:

• Read Scripture: Proclaim passages from the Old Testament, New Testament, and Psalms during services.

• Lead Prayers: Guide the congregation in intercessions, Prayers of the People, or other prepared prayers.

• Assist with Worship: Help clergy during processions, Holy Communion, and other liturgical duties.

• Participate in Special Services: Serve in weddings, funerals, and seasonal liturgies.

• Offer Reflections (When Permitted): Share homilies or meditations if trained and approved.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Varies by service schedule; training is provided to prepare Lay Readers for their responsibilities.

📣 Current Openings:
New Lay Readers are always welcome. Volunteers are trained and supported in their roles.

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com

Mobile Foodbank Ministry

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Mobile Foodbank Ministry helps provide food and essential supplies to individuals and families in need within the Holyoke community. This ministry expresses God’s love through service and supports the physical and spiritual well-being of those we serve.

🛠 What We Do:

• Organize and distribute food and supplies at scheduled mobile foodbank events.

• Assist with the setup, and packaging of food items.

• Serve and interact with community members, offering support and care.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Flexible; volunteers can help at scheduled foodbank dates according to their availability.

📣 Current Openings:
All are welcome to help with food distribution and setup

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com

Prayer Circle Ministry

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Prayer Circle Ministry brings members of the church together to pray for the needs of others, fostering spiritual support, compassion, and a sense of community within St. Paul’s.

🛠 What We Do:

• Pray regularly for parishioners who are sick, grieving, or facing challenges.

• Lift up community concerns, including local crises or natural disasters.

• Support church leadership and ministries through focused prayer.

• Maintain communication through phone, email, text, or in-person requests.

• Treat all prayer requests with confidentiality and sensitivity.

• Participate according to a flexible schedule, either individually or in group meetings, in person or virtually.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Varies; members commit to praying consistently according to their availability, with options for daily, weekly, or as-needed participation.

📣 Current Openings:
New members are always welcome. Anyone who wishes to pray for the needs of the church and community can join.

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com

Spirit Committee

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
To grow in our ability to care as members of God’s family.

🛠 What We Do / Goals:

1. Help parishioners stay aware of events, needs, and opportunities at St. Paul’s.
2. Foster a sense of belonging, appreciation, and personal connection to the church.
3. Encourage responsibility for caring for God’s creation—both people and the environment.
4. Support the church, parishioners, and the wider community with a spirit of faith, love, and compassion.

🌿 Annual Projects Include:

• Organizing the Giving Tree event (collecting and wrapping clothing for men living in a Holyoke shelter).
• Caring for the church gardens.
• Sending cards and bringing treats to members facing challenges or losses.
• Sending thank-you and seasonal cards to staff and volunteers.
• Providing carnations for Mother’s Day and small gifts for Father’s Day.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Monthly Zoom meetings are held on the 3rd Tuesday, 7:30–8:00 PM.
Participation is flexible—help as much as you are able. Meeting minutes are emailed for those who cannot attend.

📣 Current Openings:
New members are always welcome!

📞 Contact:
Joan Daly – jdal2@verizon.net

Stewardship

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Stewardship Committee helps guide the parish in understanding and embracing the spiritual practice of stewardship—sharing our time, talents, and financial gifts to support the mission and ministries of St. Paul’s. This ministry encourages a culture of gratitude, generosity, and faithful giving.

🛠 What We Do:

• Plan and lead the annual stewardship campaign.
• Communicate the importance of financial giving and volunteer involvement.
• Prepare stewardship materials, letters, and pledge cards.
• Share stories of how parish giving supports ministry, outreach, and church operations.
• Encourage parishioners to reflect on how they can grow in generosity.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Most work occurs during the stewardship season (typically fall), with additional planning meetings as needed. Time commitment varies with campaign activities.

📣 Current Openings:
New members are always welcome—especially those who enjoy communications, organizing, writing, or encouraging others in their faith journey. Anyone with a heart for gratitude and generosity is invited to join.

📞 Contact:
Phil Levy – dav41phil@gmail.com

Trustees

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:

The Trustees are tasked with managing the St. Paul’s Church Endowment Funds, ensuring their long-term stability and proper stewardship. Established by the Vestry on January 25, 1925, the Trustees are elected by the parish at the annual meeting to serve three-year terms. The committee must consist of no fewer than two and no more than five voting members.

🛠 What We Do:

• Oversee three endowment funds:
  • Unrestricted Fund
  • Restricted Fund
  • Bricks Fund
• Work with Berkshire Bank’s investment management team, who manage the funds under the Trustees’ oversight.
• Meet quarterly with Berkshire Bank representative Stephen Crawley to review fund performance and approve any proposed strategy changes.
• Collaborate with the Vestry and other committees regarding investment concerns and appropriate use of endowment resources.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Quarterly meetings with Berkshire Bank, plus additional meetings as needed for parish or Vestry inquiries.

📞 Contact:
Diane Lessard- dlfern47@gmail.com

Vestry

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Vestry serves as the governing and leadership body of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, working in partnership with the Rector to support the spiritual, administrative, and communal life of the parish. Its members are elected by the congregation and entrusted with representing the voice, concerns, hopes, and vision of the parish community.

🛠 What We Do:

• Guide major decisions affecting the life and mission of the church.
• Safeguard the values, vision, and long-term well-being of the parish.
• Oversee the stewardship of parish resources and finances.
• Support and collaborate with parish ministries that serve both the congregation and the wider Holyoke community.
• Work with the Rector to maintain a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant spiritual home for all.

🏛 Junior Warden’s Role:
Within the Vestry, the Junior Warden plays a key leadership role in managing the maintenance, infrastructure, and physical care of the church buildings and property.

💼 Additional Responsibilities:

• Organize and supervise the fundraising subcommittee, which helps sustain parish programs and outreach.
• Engage in collaborative leadership to help shape ministries that meet the spiritual and practical needs of the parish.

⏰ Time Commitment:
The Vestry meets monthly, with additional time devoted to parish events, committee work, and special projects. Serving on the Vestry is a meaningful commitment of faith, time, and shared responsibility for the well-being of the congregation.

📣 Current Openings:
Members are elected annually. Parishioners interested in serving may speak with the Senior Warden.

📞 Contact:
Dr. Gloria Caballero Roca, Senior Warden- caballero.gloria3035@gmail.com

Veterans Lunch Program

📌 Purpose of the Ministry:
The Veterans Lunch Program provides fellowship, meals, and support to local veterans. This ministry honors those who have served and fosters community, camaraderie, and spiritual care.

🛠 What We Do:

• Prepare and serve lunches for veterans on scheduled days.

• Offer companionship, conversation, and a welcoming environment.

⏰ Time Commitment:
Flexible; volunteers may help with meal preparation, serving, or cleanup according to their availability.

📣 Current Openings:
Volunteers of all ages are welcome to help with food prep, serving, and fellowship activities.

📞 Contact: Gina Nelson- ginanelson5@gmail.com