Worship Support Ministries
Worship at the Cathedral depends on the efforts of hundreds of parishioners whose support and dedication allows services to run smoothly. All of our liturgical volunteers are leaders who facilitate the congregation’s prayer. We encourage you to consider being involved in any of the following areas.
For more information or to sign up for any of these liturgical ministries, please contact the Rev. Canon Salmoon Bashir, sbashir@cathedralATL.org Hillary Jones, hjones@cathedralATL.org or 404-365-1038.
Youth Acolytes
Youth acolytes, sixth grade and above, assist at the worship services at the Cathedral. Training is offered at the beginning of each school year and throughout the year as needed. For more information, contact Keith Dumke, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.
Adult Acolytes
Adult acolytes assist in the 4 p.m. worship services as well as other special services at the Cathedral. Training is offered as needed throughout the year.
READ A LETTER FROM STEWART MCDONOUGH ABOUT ADULT ACOLYTES
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild prepares the altar for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist on Sundays and during the week, and then reverently clears and stores the vessels and linens afterward. Members typically serve at one or two services per month. The ministry of altar guild is rooted in care, hospitality, and reverence; it is perfect for those who value sacred attention to detail and supporting the worship life of the church. Training is provided, and new members are always welcome.
READ A LETTER FROM MARY CAROLINE CRAVENS ABOUT THE ALTAR GUILD
Baptism Guild
The Baptism Guild is a ministry focused on supporting families during baptism. Baptism Guild members greet and welcome families participating in baptism. They attend the baptism workshop on Saturdays and assist with baptism preparations on Sundays.
Brass Polishing
These members polish all the brass used in worship services, including railings, candlesticks, and alms basins. Volunteers are divided into teams, serving two or three times a year.
Choirs
The Cathedral’s choirs offer music ranging from plainchant, European continental masterworks and the Anglican tradition, to African-American Spirituals, music of the Episcopal and other American worship traditions, and premières by living composers. Learn more »
Eucharistic Visitors
These confirmed members take the Holy Communion from the Sunday services to those who cannot attend church in person. Training is offered occasionally throughout the year.
Finance Count Teams
Help ensure the faithful stewardship of the parish’s offerings by serving on a Finance Count Team. Teams of four or five volunteers count the Sunday offering after the morning services. Each team serves every other month, making this an important behind-the-scenes ministry that also offers a wonderful opportunity for fellowship and shared service.To volunteer, please contact Charles Jacobs, 404-365-1070 or Melana Dickson, 404-365-1074.
Flower Guild
The Flower Guild designs and arranges flowers for Sunday services, weddings, receptions, and major feast days. Members serve as part of one of four teams, with each team taking a turn once per quarter. At Christmas and Easter, the whole guild comes together to prepare the Cathedral for these major celebrations.
Altar flowers in the Cathedral and Mikell Chapel may be given in memory or in thanksgiving for loved ones. The suggested donation is $125 per name. To donate flowers, contact Hillary Jones at 404-365-1038 or hjones@cathedralATL.org.
Funeral Guild
The Funeral Guild supports families and guests on the day of a funeral by providing hospitality, assisting with altar guild duties, and serving as ushers and greeters. It is a ministry of presence, compassion, and offering quiet support during one of life’s most tender moments.
Intercessors and Lectors
Confirmed members serve as lectors by reading the scriptural lessons or as intercessors by leading the Prayers of the People during Sunday morning Eucharist and other major services. It’s a visible and meaningful way to participate in worship. Training is offered periodically throughout the year, and new voices are always welcome.
Lay Chalice Bearers
Lay Chalice Bearers (LCBs) serve by assisting the clergy in sharing the sacrament of Holy Communion with the congregation. As members of the Cathedral community, Lay Chalice Bearers offer their time and talents in this ministry of service, hospitality, and welcome. Those who serve commit to a regular schedule and receive training and support from clergy and staff.
Ushers
Ushering at the Cathedral is first and foremost a ministry of hospitality. Ushers greet and welcome parishioners, distribute leaflets, assist with seating and special needs, collect and present the offering, and usher communicants. Sunday usher teams typically serve two consecutive Sundays every two months, while other ushers serve as needed for funerals and other special services. This is a very rewarding experience and offers opportunities to meet and make new friends
Should you be interested in joining the Usher Ministry, please speak to one of the ushers wearing a white, yellow or red carnation. They will take your name and contact information. You will be contacted to discuss your availability and assist in selecting a team you may wish to join.
READ A LETTER FROM ROD BUNN ABOUT uSHERING
Wedding Guild
Wedding Guild members assist the clergy and families during both the rehearsal and the wedding ceremony, helping things run smoothly behind the scenes. They serve several times a year and meet regularly to stay connected and prepared. This guild is a great fit for those who enjoy hospitality, coordination, and being part of joyful milestones.