Ministries

The beauty of our Weekend Experience Ministry is that the majority of this ministry's work happens either before, during, or after Mass so it fits easily into your schedule. If you are coming to Mass, you can be part of this ministry in some way!

Greeters

Our Greeters create the first impression for our visitors and play an integral role in setting a welcoming tone for Ascension Parish. Greeters meet and greet people at the door before and after Weekend Masses in a joyful, welcoming manner so that everyone feels the Spirit of Christ before they enter the Sanctuary. Our Greeters also assist with any special needs as requested.

Hosts

Our Hosts continue the spirit of Hospitality begun by the Greeters and help ensure that the Liturgical Celebration flows smoothly. This includes assisting people in finding their seats at the beginning of Masses, leading our Offertory Collection, and providing other assistance as needed during the Sunday Eucharistic Celebrations and Holy Days.

Hospitality

Our Hospitality Team is the cornerstone for cultivating a sense of belonging for both our parishioners and visitors. The team identifies and creates meaningful social gatherings around the Sunday morning Masses, as well as other opportunities to bring the community together.

Children’s Liturgy of the Word Assistant

Our Children’s Liturgy of the Word takes place during the 9 AM Sunday Mass. Geared toward elementary-aged children, it provides the Sunday readings and Gospel in an age-appropriate format. This ministry is open to all adults; no teaching or classroom experience required; training and materials are provided.

Production Team

Our Production Team creates the irresistible environment and engaging worship experience inside the Church and for our online viewers using the latest technology in audio-visual equipment and practices. Opportunities to serve include operating livestream cameras, slideshows, lights, and more during Mass. No experience necessary. Most Tech ministers serve for one day each weekend monthly or bi-monthly.

Clean Team

We are excited to welcome our parish family to our Maynard and Sudbury campuses to worship, serve, and share in our community. Our Clean Team members participate in our mission to ensure our churches, buildings, and grounds are sparkling clean for every Mass and event we hold. You can serve on a schedule that is convenient to you and we encourage Small Groups to serve as a team periodically!

Decorating Ministry

Our Decorating Ministry creates a beautiful and inviting church environment, both inside and out, that glorifies God and enhances our daily Mass and weekend worship experience. Opportunities include arranging flowers in our church sanctuaries, helping decorate at Christmas and Easter, and tending our exterior planters and outdoor shrine. No experience necessary. Serve once or on an ongoing basis. Come grow with us!

Grade 1-5 Catechists

Grades 1-5 Faith Formation uses the Word of Life curriculum from the Augustine Institute and Ignatius Press. Lesson plans are provided. We are looking for catechists and assistants to help our elementary school-aged children grow as disciples!

Middle & High School Faith Formation Volunteers

Middle and High School faith formation uses a centralized lesson model for teaching then breaks students up into small groups for discussion. As a volunteer in this program, you will help facilitate discussion among the students and help lead any planned activities. You will be a model of the faith to the students and guide them on their faith journey. No planning is required, all materials provided to you.

High School-Aged Volunteers

High school students are welcomed and encouraged to assist catechists during Faith Formation classes. The younger students look up to the high school students as role models of the faith. High school aides also can learn skills in leadership.

Special Event Volunteers

Our Special Event Volunteers serve at retreats, as chaperones or drivers, and during other Faith Formation Special Events on an as-needed basis. Perfect for parishioners who require more flexibility!

NEW Teen/Adult Ministry Seeking Mentors

We are enthusiastically exploring the creation of a new ministry for Grades 8-12 that will include evening gatherings once a month (during the school year) for young men and adult male mentors, and for young women and adult female mentors. We are currently seeking parishioners who are interested in potentially serving as mentors.

Funeral/Bereavement

Parishioners who are seeking help in this ministry have recently experienced a great loss. They need someone who is warm, kind, and compassionate to be there for them and help them understand they are not alone during this time of suffering.

Nursing Home/Homebound Visitors

There are many parishioners who are unable to worship with us in person. By bringing them the Holy Eucharist they are able to receive the graces from it, as well as feel like they are a part of the parish even if they are not physically present. Flexible schedule, simply serve when you are able!

Jumpstart

Our Jumpstart Ministry seeks Jumpstart alumni to support new seasons in the areas of Small Group Leaders, Food Crew, Greeters, Bakers, and more.

Small Groups

Small Groups is where our large parish gets small. Groups of 6-12 people meet to discuss their faith, experiences and struggles, and our commitment to bring our faith into our daily lives. We are excited to engage with parishioners who are interested in facilitating or hosting a Small Group, drafting weekly questions, and helping with special events, especially as this ministry grows!

Prayer Team

Our prayer team supports Father Gerald in creating a worship culture that equips the parish community in consistent prayer and acts of piety. Training offered to assist in the set-up of Eucharistic Adoration. Ministry co-leads Elisa Riedl and Pat McCarthy.

Sacristans

Sacristans assist with the liturgical environment of each church by reverently caring for our sacred altar cloths, including washing and ironing the linens, as well as various responsibilities within the sanctuary.

Altar Server

Altar Servers assist the Priest and Deacon during the Mass. Specific tasks include processing at the beginning and end of Mass and helping to set up the altar before the Liturgy of the Eucharist. We are looking for High School Altar Servers to serve as leaders/mentors for our younger servers, training provided.