St. Anthony of PaduaRoman Catholic Church, Kincardine

Trained boys and girls in Grade 4 and above assist the priest at Mass and other liturgical celebrations, including funerals and weddings. This is a great way to become involved and to learn about the Eucharist. Training is provided so servers understand each part of the Mass and their role in the celebration.

Leaders provide children with liturgical readings and activities appropriate to their age during the weekend Mass. Children ages 4–9 (JK to Grade 2) gather in a special room to celebrate the Liturgy of the Word at an age-appropriate level. They return to their families after the Prayers of the Faithful to join the assembly for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

Collection Counters count and record all cash and checks collected during the weekend Mass. Working in teams of two or more, they prepare deposit slips, record envelope contributions, and ensure accurate handling and deposit of parish funds. Honesty, confidentiality, and teamwork are essential for this ministry.

The Environment team maintains the church grounds and gardens, caring for flowers, greenery, and seasonal plants. Responsibilities include planting, watering, fertilizing, and pruning to enhance the beauty of the property.

Finance Council members oversee the parish’s financial needs and the distribution of funds. They review financial management processes—including internal controls and reporting—and help ensure accountability while supporting the pastor in his temporal responsibilities.

Ushers greet and welcome parishioners and visitors at weekend Masses, help them find seats, and organize the offertory collection and procession. They maintain order during Communion, distribute bulletins after the final hymn, and assist at special parish events or services as needed.

The Maintenance Committee ensures that the church, rectory, and grounds remain in good condition. Members perform routine inspections and general repairs, referring more complex issues to qualified contractors.

Ministers of Holy Communion, a laity privilege restored by Vatican II, distribute the Eucharist at Mass. Members are trained and mandated by the Diocese. Once qualified, they serve at weekend Masses and other liturgies.
Pastoral Care: A sub-team brings Holy Communion to homebound and hospitalized parishioners and arranges the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick as needed.

Ministers of the Word proclaim God’s Word during Mass, reading from the Old and New Testaments. Lectors should have strong, clear voices, confidence, maturity, and sensitivity to touch both ears and hearts. Through prayer and study, they deepen their understanding of Scripture and its role in our celebration of faith.

The Music Ministry comprises singers and instrumentalists who praise the Lord in song at Saturday evening and Sunday morning Masses. Their music enriches the liturgy, making celebrations more meaningful and vibrant.

The Pastoral Council assists the pastor in identifying, studying, and responding to the parish’s pastoral needs. As a forum for communication, it is consultative, offering prudent recommendations to foster growth. Members, all in full communion with the Catholic Church, work to honor diverse cultures and gifts, regularly reviewing pastoral activities and evaluating their effectiveness in building a vibrant community.

Prayer quilts symbolize our prayers for one another. Each square is tied with a prayer, making the quilt a tangible reminder of God’s healing power. They are symbols of faith and testimonies to our belief in the power of prayer.

• Baptism: Assist families in preparing for their child’s baptism and guide them through the Rite of Baptism.
• First Communion & Reconciliation: Extend school-based Religious Education by teaching children the prayers and practices for receiving these sacraments.
• Confirmation: Prepare candidates within a parish setting, integrating faith formation with Mass celebrations.
• RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults): Guide unbaptized adults, members of other Christian traditions, or baptized Catholics who have not yet received Confirmation and First Communion into full membership of the Catholic Church.

The Sacristy team prepares the worship space for liturgies, cleans and cares for sacred vessels, and maintains vestments and servers’ garments. They monitor supplies—hosts, wine, and linens—appropriate for each liturgical season and decorate the sanctuary accordingly.

The Screening Committee, consisting of two to five members, reviews and evaluates volunteer applicants for positions of trust. By following Diocesan policies and procedures, and after receiving proper training, they help maintain a safe environment for all parishioners and volunteers.

The Social Committee organizes and executes social events that foster fellowship within the parish. By welcoming newcomers and providing opportunities to connect, they strengthen our parish community.

Youth Ministry provides teens with opportunities to gather, celebrate life and faith, and grow spiritually. Activities focus on spiritual formation, social interaction, and community service. Volunteers are needed to coordinate programs and mentor young people.