As
you have undoubtedly discovered, participation in your local parish is the
backbone of participation in the Church. The parish is "your"
community, in some sense a real family. Like all families, parishes have
their problems and disagreements; and, like families, they have their
times of joy and celebration. They have their leaders and their followers,
their doers and their thinkers.
Following is a list of groups, programs and needs which
may or may not exist in your parish. Some ideas only need the right person
to bring them to life -- and that person might be you.
Other programs are surely already happening in your
parish, and you might want to lend a hand. It is an excellent way to get
to know others, as well as to make a difference in your
community.
Minister of the Eucharist/Lector
Religious Education (Catechist)
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults)
Youth or Young Adult Ministry
Parish Council
Bible Study
Day Care Program
Social Justice Committee
Parish Outreach Programs (may include food/shelter
programs, community political involvement)
Programs for the Mentally and Physically Challenged
Music Ministry
Ministry to the Sick
Liturgy Committee
Special Study Groups
Programs with Hispanics, Asians, Blacks, or other
specific groups
AIDS/Hospice Outreach
Separated and Divorced Ministry
Ministry to and by your own parish family could be a
wonderful way to put your talents and energy to work. If your parish isn’t
as progressive as you’d like it to be, remember change comes from within. Why not commit to heightening awareness and making change?
