Purpose: To prepare the church for the celebration of Holy Mass and other liturgical events like baptisms, funerals, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, at the direction of the priest or deacon.
Activities: Preparing the church for the liturgy, including ritual books, sacred vessels, altar breads and wine and attending to the needs of the celebrant. This also includes ensuring that other participants are present for other ministries such as readers, EMHCs and altar servers. Sacristans are expected to put away vessels and books after Mass.
Time Commitment: Sacristans are principally needed once or twice a month at Sunday or daily Mass, and depending on their level of commitment, sacristans may serve at other liturgical events like baptisms or funerals. When serving, sacristans should be at church 30 minutes before Mass.
Requirements: Being in good standing with the Catholic Church. The ministry is open to both adult men and women. New sacristans will be scheduled after training and an introductory period working with other sacristans.