What does your ministry do?
As a Eucharist Minister I assist at Sunday masses and minister to the sick and the homebound and in any other services that may require an EM My training a an EM and special training for the home ministry permits me to assist the priest at mass to distribute the Eucharist to the community. I also bring the Eucharist to those because of illness or disability are unable to attend mass.
What drew you to this ministry?
My first experience with this ministry was during my Mom's illness. At that time only the priest was able to come with the Eucharist, but when the changes in the church allowed the EM to bring communion I felt that was what I wanted to do because I observed the sense of peace the person experienced after receiving communion. That the Lord touched their heart. I saw this each time my Mom was able to receive the Eucharist and and I wanted to bring the Lords love to others who are homebound.
How long have you been with Saints Peter and Paul?
I have been a member of Sts. Peter and Paul for the past 19 years.
What special talents did you have that might enhance your skill in this ministry?
My love of the mature generation because that is the majority of the homebound and I have had training in gerontology and a graduate of the PFI program.
What do you gain from this ministry?
I have gained so much over the years, I have been a minister to the sick and homebound for over 22 years and I have made so many friends and have heard so many wonderful stories. I feel the Lord has given me a very special gift.
What would you say to a parishioner if they wanted to volunteer, that might not consider this ministry except for your recommendation?
I feel this ministry is special and I feel a person is called in their heart.
If someone would want to volunteer (and the Lord knows we can welcome some) they have to be a Eucharist Minister and take a day of training through the diocese. I would give them some material to read that explaines what the ministry is about. After they have done the requirements they will know if the ministry is for them.
What other ministries have you been involved with and why?
I love Envirorment and Arts. It's great privilege to decorate the church for the different seasons especially Easter and Christmas this is a ministry I would recommend to anyone and have fun in the process. I have been working with the gals for ten years. boy time flies when your having fun. I volunteer for the baptism program. I balance it out for myself I see the new born and the old. I also help with the altar linens and what ever else I can do.
Why do you volunteer?
I find volunteering to be educational, a person can learn a lot working with all types of people on different projects. Learn something all the time. I find volunteering to be very productive and fun.
Other comments that you would like us to know.
Being involved in ministry has brought me closer to God and to the people that I have come to know at Saints Peter and Paul.
