Children's Liturgy
Children's Liturgy is the Liturgy of the Word suitably adapted to make it relevant to the lives and experiences of young children. It gives them the opportunity to understand the Gospel message and participate in the Eucharistic celebration at their own level. The children leave the Mass after the opening prayer and return for the Offertory procession. The content of their Liturgy varies according to the Gospel of the Day, but follows the same pattern. There is a welcoming introduction, Making the Sign of the Cross, Prayers, the Gospel Reading, a discussion and some form of activity such as singing, drama, artwork and quizzes. These are used to help the children to retain the stories, understand the various themes and remember the Gospel message. The children are encouraged to be involved according to their ability.
There is Children's Liturgy on Sundays at the 9:15 am Mass at St Gregory's and the 10:30am Mass at Our Lady of Ransom and at the 11.15am mass at St Agnes
All members of the Children's Liturgy teams have to be cleared by the Criminal Record Bureau. New volunteers to the teams are always welcome.
The contact for Our Lady of Ransom is Barbara on 500181 and for St Gregory's it is Liz on 723596.
Choirs
There are thriving choirs in all three churches and new members are always welcome. Choir practice for Our Lady of Ransom is on Wednesday evenings (CHECK) and for St Gregory's on Sundays at 8:50am before the 9:15am Mass. St Gregory's particularly encourages children and instrumentalists.
If you are interested contact John after Sunday Mass at St Gregory's or, for Our Lady of Ransom, contact Maura
Ministry of Reader
Members of the parish community may express an interest in becoming a reader or may be invited to become one. Their duty is to read one or more of the following: the first reading, the psalm (when it is not sung) and the second reading, as well as the Gospel acclamation (when not sung) . If you are interested in joining this ministry please contact the parish office.
Ministry of Holy Communion
Members of the congregation join this Ministry by invitation or may express an interest in exploring this possibility. Their duties are to assist the Priests at Mass with the distribution of Holy Communion and to take the Blessed Sacrament to sick members of the parishes in Nursing and Care Homes as well as in their own homes as necessary. They also participate in a half day of Reflection once a year in which they are joined by the members of other ministries such as Readers and Welcomers.
The contact is Rose on 01323 732800
Welcomers
There are Welcomers in Our Lady of Ransom, St Gregory's and St Agnes at all weekend Masses. They provide a warm welcome to everyone coming to Mass, whether they be long time parishioners, newcomers or visitors. The Welcomers make sure all the literature required for each Mass is available ie. newletters, missalettes and hymnbooks. They take the offertory collection. They arrange the details of the offertory procession. They tidy up after Mass so all is in order for the next Mass. They also answer any queries that Mass goers might have. It is a very rewarding front line Ministry as you get to meet everyone and volunteers to join the teams are always most welcome.
Contact is to Ann through the Parish Office. Just leave a message with reception during office hours, 9:30am to 1:00pm Mondays to Fridays on 01323 723222 stating that you are interested in joining this team, giving your name and telephone number, and she will get back to you.