Members of the Altar Guild prepare for all forms of worship in the sanctuary and chapel, doing our best to set up and clear away in a discreet and orderly fashion so that our clergy know exactly what to expect when they celebrate the sacraments and other services. We keep the liturgical hangings the proper color, the linens freshly ironed, the candles trimmed and see that flower arrangements are on the altar each week.
In general, members serve on a three-person team approximately 6-7 weekends per year, giving an hour or two on a Saturday morning to prepare the sanctuary for Sunday, and to help clear away after Sunday services which may include Holy Eucharist and Baptism.
Also, we prepare the Lay Eucharistic Minister’s kit for Sunday and set up for the chapel service on Wednesday. A little more time is generally required in preparation for the Easter and Christmas services.
What has evolved over the years is a multi-generational group of some 25-30 women who come together, not always at the same time, and not simply for “housekeeping” task but also to share their personal joys, sorrows, fears, frustrations, triumphs and losses. Each of us brings something of ourselves to the group at different times in our lives. There is much laughter, there are accidents, even occasional sins of omission, but above all there exists a unique bond of love and friendship.
The Altar Guild meets at 10:00am in the Church Lounge on the fourth Tuesday in September, November, January and March with an end-of-the-year luncheon in May.
Membership is open to any woman who is a member of St. Alban’s Church – no experience necessary. Training is conducted on an individual basis, and you are paired with an experienced member of the Altar Guild until you’re comfortable working on your own.