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Lay Ministries: Opportunities
The opportunities for lay ministry at St. Michael's are virtually unlimited. We are each blessed with one or more God-given gifts and talents. The following descriptions of lay ministries at St. Michael's, prepared by the Lay Ministry Commission, is only a sample of the areas in which members can volunteer to help with God's work. If you have an interest which is not listed below, please don't hesitate to discuss your ideas with the Rector or a member of the appropriate Commission. Significant new ministries often begin with a mere suggestion from a member.
Remember, the work of the church benefits from every conceivable talent. Don't miss an opportunity to participate just because your special interest isn't mentioned below. All members of the congregation are invited to join in the ministry at St. Michael's as an expression of their stewardship of time, energy and talent. For further information about any activity, please call the appropriate Commission Chairman listed in the parish directory.
Service Commission
Steve Worsham, 766-2576
Purpose: To be the social conscience of the parish, insuring that the congregation, vestry and various groups within the parish are made aware of human need in the community and the world and giving them guidance to enable effective response in Christ's name.
Crisis Ministry: Bob Lawrence, 723-0603
Help prepare and serve the evening meal at the Crisis Ministry Men’s Shelter the second Thursday evening of every other month.
Bishop Gadsden: Margaret Tenney, 723-0487
Help put on special events (social gatherings, picnics, etc.) during St. Michael's month at Bishop Gadsden Episcopal Community on James Island.
Rural Mission on John's Island: Steve Worsham, 766-2576
Assist in serving the Tuesday evening meal to volunteer summer groups June through August. Provide other assistance as needed to Work Camp projects, Migrant Headstart Program, and After School programs.
HALOS (Helping and Lending Outreach Support): Barbara Simmons, 588-0296
Provide assistance to children in the foster care system of the Charleston County Department of Social Services through partnering with case managers, supplying a Resource Closet, and adopting children for gift giving at special occasions.
Healing Farm Ministries: Bob Lawrence, 723-0603
Participate in workdays and help to host special events at Thornhill Farms for the children and the families of the children with developmental disabilities.
Blood Drive: Julie Akers, 769-4868
Help organize and recruit donors for American Red Cross. Usually an annual event.
Project Angel Tree: Nicole Nicholson, 559-4413
Adopt children for gift giving at Christmas that are identified through Rural Mission and HALOS.
Meals on Wheels Ministry: Open
With a partner deliver 10 - 12 meals to needy people and shut-ins in Charleston one day every other week; meals furnished by Roper Hospital after 11:00 a.m.
Adult Literacy Program: Open
Tutor an assigned client in basic reading skills using provided materials. Preparation: Attend a training course offered periodically in the community.
Evangelism Commission
Christen Reese, 853-0436
Purpose: To encourage members of the congregation to deepen their faith in Christ and to enable them to be willing and effective in presenting Christ to others.
Church Guides: Henry Condon, 573-2400
Provide brief overview of St. Michael's history to interested visitors following the 10:30 service.
Alpha: Heidi Alexander, 723-0603
A 12-week course with supper served at 6:00 on Christian basics, designed for newcomers and non-members. Offered in the Spring and Fall.
The Order of the Daughters of the King: Heather Bryan, 762-6291
An international Order for women who commit to prayer, service, and evangelism.
Good News Bluegrass Band: Peet Dickinson, 723-0603
Bluegrass band that shares that gospel in song for outreach to parish and diocesan events as well as local night spots and secular venues.
Christian Artists: Edward Hart, 577-2283
Meet monthly to share with other artists and sponsor events featuring Christian arts.
Tourist Ministry: Open
Keep tract rack filled with "Snapshots of God" and other handouts. Welcome video.
The Brotherhood of St. Andrew: Open
A ministry of men dedicated to three disciplines of prayer, study, and service.
Meet monthly, September - May
Cursillo: Wade Logan, 883-9886
Attend a Diocesan-sponsored three-day Cursillo weekend at Camp St. Christopher (Seabrook Island); A short course in Christianity designed to raise up and train Christian leaders.
Kairos: Open
An ecumenical prison ministry where a team to host a Wednesday through Sunday ministry event at a state prison located in Ridgeville. Participants must have attended a Cursillo weekend.
Kairos Cookie Ministry: Open
Bake and box cookies for delivery to a prison that is hosting a Kairos weekend.
Parish Care Commission
Liz Lipscomb, 889-1439
Purpose: To provide opportunities through which members of St. Michael’s can develop a broader network of friendships within the congregation, and to enable the members of the parish to minister to one another’s needs.
Healing Prayer Ministries: Patti Sosnowski, 723-0603
Intensive training provided for the healing ministry. With a partner, pray with individuals who come for prayer during and after 10:30 or 6:00 p.m. services. Participate in special events and during Days of Healing Prayer which are offered several times a year. Prayer ministers participate in missions held in other churches including healing missions to the Ukraine.
Order of St. Luke the Physician: Jean & Johnnie Corbett, 723-0603
To provide exposure and training in Christian healing to members of the Church. The course “The Healing Ministry of Jesus” is offered annually, with ongoing study, prayer, and practice.
Lay Eucharistic Ministers for Home Visits: Patti Sosnowski , 723-0603
Ministering to the infirmed: Take reserved Sacrament to sick and shut-ins after church on Sunday. Training required. Clergy appointment and license by the Bishop.
Telephone Prayer Chain: Adrienne Aimar, 937-8405
Intercessory prayer usually for needs of the parish and community.
Intercessory Prayer Vigil: Patti Sosnowski, 723-0603
Coordinate or participate in prayer vigils for special events and occasions at St. Michael's.
Prayers and Presence: Patti Sosnowski, 723-0603
One of several ministry teams are available to call on a parishioner in need of food or a short visit due to illness, birth of a child, death in a family, or a similar significant event.
Tape Ministry: Charlotte David, 856-3989
Reproduce and mail cassette tapes of the 10:30 a.m. Sunday services and special conferences to homebound members and others.
Birthday Cards: Barbara Loux, 723-4466
Purchase, address, mail birthday cards to students away at school/college; also to senior members and shut-ins.
Cookies for Away Students: Roberta McCue, 577-4470
Bake, box, and help mail "Pre-exam Care Package" to students away at prep school or college. End of November.
Hospitality: Charlotte David, 856-3989
Prepare and serve special receptions, dinners, etc. for parish events or celebrations. Set-up flatware, beverage and serving tables, center pieces.
8:00 a.m. Service Coffee Hour: Kate Marjenhoff, 766-9372
Prepare and clean up coffee served in loggia after 8:00 a.m. Sunday service and before 9:30 a.m. Christian Formation Classes.
10:30 a.m. Service Coffee Hour: Curry Smoak, 406-9556
Members of a team make coffee, set out cookies, prepare cups, and clean up for Coffee Hour after 10:30 a.m. Sunday service on assigned Sundays.
Advent/Lenten Breakfasts: Rusty Wallace, 884-0265
Help purchase, prepare and serve breakfast Tuesdays in Advent and Lent. (6:00 a.m. - 8:00 a.m.)
Coffee and Kitchen Shopper: Karen Marjenhoff, 766-9372
Maintain the supplies and shop for Sunday morning and evening Coffees, as well as daily needs, purchasing cookies, creamer, sugar, paper products, etc. as needed for the parish kitchen. Also, oversee the bulk purchase of paper cups.
The Gate: Peet Dickinson, 723-0603
For young Christian adults, in the Charleston area who are in their 20's and 30's. Gather for social, spiritual and evangelistic outreach activities.
Mingles: Bob Lawrence, 723-0603
For married and single adults, targeting the “Baby Boomer” generations, but open to all. Gather for social and educational Christian fellowship.
Sociable Saints: Gus Marjenhoff, 766-9372
For mature folks in their 50's and above. Gather for cultural, social, and Christian formation opportunities.
Kanuga Weekend 2007: Corey Turner, 965-5604
Friday - Sunday at Kanuga, an Episcopal conference center in the mountains of North Carolina near Hendersonville; for individuals of all ages and families. February 9th through 11th.
Cookbook Committee: Beverly Howell, 556-3411
Help sell and market St. Michael's Cookbook (2001 edition).
Special Guests Ministry: Patti Sosnowski , 723-0603
Provide housing, meals and/or transportation for visiting ministers, speakers and other out-of-town guests assisting in worship services at St. Michael's.
Flower Delivery Ministry: Open
Divide the altar flowers in disposable containers and deliver by Monday afternoon to parishioners in local hospitals, nursing centers and homes.
Telephone Ministry: Open
Call list of parishioners to promote parish event or request help with special activities.
Kitchen Swat Team: Open
Keep kitchen organized, and purchase serving utensils and cleaning equipment as needed.
Worship Commission
Trish Kirkland, 723-3572
Purpose: To assist the clergy in recruitment, training, and supervision of all who have roles in worship, and in the provision of equipment and supplies necessary for worship. Helping to insure that our weekly worship services and special celebrations offer the best possible opportunities for worshippers at St. Michael's to give themselves in praise and thanksgiving to God.
Lay Readers: Al Zadig, 723-0603
Assist clergy at Sunday and weekday services, reading lessons, prayers of the people, administering the chalice at Holy Communion.
Midday Prayer Leader: Jane Potts, 884-0965
Lead Noon Day Prayers in church on weekdays at 12:10 p.m. Training provided.
Ushers: Mikell Scarborough, 763-1125
Greet worshippers arriving, distribute service bulletins and seat visitors; receive the offering and present at the altar rail; assist during Holy Communion by directing participants from pews; pick up remaining bulletins in pews after service. Ushers serve at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and special services.
Acolytes: Robby Marion, 769-7149
For boys and girls in grades 5 - 12. Assist in worship leadership as a crucifer and candle lighter; receive offering; serve clergy at Holy Communion at 8:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and special services. Training provided.
6:00 p.m. Service Team: Fred Thompson, 559-5101
Serve on team that includes responsibilities for assisting as greeters, ushers, crucifer, readers, intercessory prayers, lighting, pizza dinner hosts, and money counters.
Altar Guild: Gaby Brown, 722-3469
Members are appointed by the Rector to serve on one of four teams having responsibility for preparation for Holy Communion and other services, Sunday and weekday, including weddings and funerals. This ministry includes care of the silver, linens, brocade hangings and vestments.
Flower Guild: Ruthie Smythe, 577-2900
Join a team to arrange altar flowers for Sunday and special services, including weddings and funerals; also assist in preparing seasonal decorations in the church.
Flower Donors: Ruthie Smythe, 577-2900
Donate Sunday altar flowers in memory of, or thanksgiving for, a loved one
Adult Choir: Lee Kohlenberg, 724-7569
Praise Band: Lee Kohlenberg, 724-7569
Training Choir: Elsie Kohlenberg, 852-5247
Junior Choir: Rosemary Serpa, 330-4118
Youth Choir: Rosemary Serpa, 330-4118
Hand Bell Choir: Jeannie Martin, 557-6134
St. Michael's Tower Bell Ringers: C. J. Cantwell, 577-2333
Keyboard Bell Ringers: Lee Kohlenberg, 723-0603
Other Music Department Needs: Lee Kohlenberg, 723-0603
Music Department Volunteer Secretarial Assistance and choir Folder preparation
Musical Production Assistance: (lights, sets, props, costumes) Time Required: seasonal
Christian Formation Commission
Liz Thompson, 971-0336
Purpose: To provide for parishioners of all ages a well rounded program of regular learning opportunities and special educational events through which the Christian Faith may be understood and the Christian Life explored, and to encourage all members of St. Michael's to develop habits of personal study of Holy Scripture and Christian literature which will help them grow toward Christian maturity.
Adult Seminar Leader: Al Zadig , 723-0603
Lead a 4 - 6 week adult seminar in Bible study, theology or the practical application of the Christian Faith. Sunday at 9:30 am - 10:15 am
Confirmation for Adults: Alex Dickson , 723-0603
Anglican Essentials Class, usually meeting on Sundays.
Confirmation for Young People: Susie Morrison, 723-0603
Four month program of instruction for young people 7th grade and above to prepare them for Confirmation for the spring visitation of the Bishop.
Small Group Leaders: Bob Lawrence, 723-0603
Coordination of all church and home based small groups. Training provided by clergy for those interested in leading a small group book and Bible study .
Disciple: Lynn Lawrence, 723-0603
Four intensive 32-week courses in the study of Holy Scripture in small group setting.
Financial Peace: Joe Nicholson, 559-4413
Twelve week program using the biblical teachings of Dave Ramsey for sound financial management of personal affairs. Meets weekly in the evenings.
Christian Formation Teachers / Leaders: Amy Smith, 723-0603
Teach or co-teach a Sunday Christian Formation class for children or young people, ages Pre-K - 5th grade. Teacher training and Bible-centered curriculum provided. Sunday 9:30 am-10:15 am
Substitute Christian Formation Teacher: Amy Smith , 723-0603
Children's Chapel and Worship (Pre-K 4’s - 5th grade): Amy Smith, 723- 0603
Assist a team of Directors in conducting programs for children during 10:30 am Sunday service. Enter during the announcement time on Holy Communion Sundays and for Morning Prayer, process out behind the Crucifer during the sermon hymn.
Nursery: Janet Sosnowski , 766-5315
The director oversees the operation of the Infant and Toddler Nurseries. Schedules and supervises nursery employees for Sunday services, and other events.
Nursery Monitor Program: Janet Sosnowski , 766-5315
9:30 am Sundays, volunteers assist paid nursery staff with childcare during Sunday School and 10:30 service.
Toddler Church: Janet Sosnowski, 723-0603
Teach a Bible based lesson to the 2-3 year olds for 30 minutes during the 10:30 service.
The Weekly Reader:
Read stories to 2 - 3 year olds during Sunday School in the Toddler Nursery.
Toddler Time: Janet Sosnowski, 795-6963
An outreach program for children 11-23 months, 8:30 am to 11:30 am, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Limited to 12 children.
Vacation Bible School: , 723-0603
Teach or assist with classes, crafts, music, worship, registration, and refreshments for children ages Pre-K 4’s through 5th grade, daily from 9:00 am until noon for one week in early June. A nursery is generally available as a service to volunteers.
Christmas Pageant: Amy Smith, 723-0603
Christmas Pageant, a traditional costumed tableaux enacting the birth of Christ on Christmas Eve; sing in one of the choirs; parental involvement; three rehearsals required; lots of fun.
Special Christian Formation Opportunities: Amy Smith, 723-0603
Help with Kanuga weekend children's program; help with one-time projects; decorating for Kick-off Sunday, etc.; 8:45 am Children’s Communion service.
Library: Martha Dougherty, 722-5910 and Peggy McKinney, 216-6857
Maintain books, audio and video tapes; display selection of materials in parish hall bookshelves.
Book Store: Joe Nicholson, 559-4413
Volunteer opportunities will be available upon opening.
Historian: Bubber Cockrell, 723-0078
Maintain parish archives and research to provide answers to inquiries.
FUEL Ministries: Susie Morrison , 723-0603
Fuel for Middle School (6th - 8th grades):
We meet every Sunday afternoon from 3:30 - 5:30 pm for snacks, games, music, and learning about Jesus in our world.
Fuel for High School (9th - 12th grades):
We meet every Wednesday night from 6:00 - 8:00 pm for food, games, worship, and filling up on the Word.
Check out our website at fuelministries.net
Lay Ministry Commission
Tyler Prescott, 762-7450
Purpose: To help every member of the congregation understand his baptism as commissioning for Christian ministry, discover his God-given gifts for ministry, and find his place of service in the church and in the world.
Newcomer Receptions/Dinners: Caroline deVlaming, 270-5200
Host periodic newcomer events to provide hospitality and information sharing to recent visitors and newcomers.
Michaelmas Celebration: Tyler Prescott, 762-7450
Plan and coordinate annual Michaelmas events in late September, early October, including the Sunday banner procession and display, and usually a parish meal with a special speaker.
Lay Ministry Survey: Tyler Prescott, 762-7450
Draft, distribute and collate date from annual parish survey distributed with stewardship materials in late fall. Distribute interest to respective parish commission for recruitment of new participants in parish ministries.
Greeters: Fred Willis, 577-0111
Ministry of hospitality where team of greeters meet visitors arriving for the 8:00 and 10:30 services. Serve on quarterly schedule.
Visitor Incorporation Ministry: Bob Lawrence, 723-0603
Follow-up with Sunday visitors through letters, phone calls, email and home visits, as well as an invitation to the next scheduled newcomer event.
Building & Grounds Commission
Chappy McKay, 884-6608
Purpose: To enable the mission of the Church by proper management and maintenance of the congregation's existing buildings, equipment, and property, and by developing facilities which will be adequate for future program needs.
Property Committee: Serve on subcommittee for overseeing of church, parish house, rectory, churchyard.
Yard Work: Participate in Planting/Maintenance Day by Churchyard Committee.
Special Repairs: Use special skills to do occasional repairs of furniture, equipment in parish house as needed.
Adopt-A-Tombstone: Select a stone in churchyard (family member or other) and keep it and surrounding area maintained.
Finance Commission / Administration
John Sosnowski, 559-1285
Purpose: To provide for the regular teaching of principles of Christian stewardship to the congregation, stressing the importance of total response through faith, worship, prayer, work, and financial sacrifice. To encourage proportionate giving, based on the tithe, for God's work through St. Michael's and elsewhere; and to insure that funds given through the parish are wisely spent or invested, and that proper records are kept and to recommend financing options to the Vestry when major expenditures are considered.
Stewardship Volunteers: John Sosnowski, 559-1285
Collate material and prepare stewardship mailings.
Office or Telephone Volunteer: Ken Coker, 723-0603
Be available to help the parish staff answer telephones, prepare mailings, proofread, copy, fold, collate, or type documents (computer skills are helpful, but not necessary).
Tuesday Saints: Ken Coker, 723-0603
Assist with proofing or copying The Messenger on Tuesday afternoons.
Wednesday Messenger Angels: Hamer Salmons, 722-7264 or Trish McGuinn, 402-0630
Join a group meeting every third Wednesday at 9:00 a.m. to collate, fold, and mail parish newsletter (The Messenger).
Bulletin Boards: Ken Coker , 723-0603
Decorate, update bulletin boards in parish house and south narthex in church.
Appointed Ministries: Al Zadig, 723-0603
Accept appointment by Commission Chairman to serve a three-year term on one of the parish Commissions, helping to develop and coordinate programs in the areas of service, evangelism, worship, Christian formation, parish life, building and grounds, lay ministry or finance.
Elected Ministries: Al Zadig, 723-0603
When nominated by the nominating committee or at the Annual Meeting, offer to serve a two-year term as Junior or Senior Warden (parish lay leaders), a three-year term as a member of the Vestry (parish legal agents and governing board), or as a delegate to the annual Diocesan Convention, usually held Friday - Saturday in March at various locations in the Diocese.
Trustees: Tom Waring, 722-6863
With special qualifications in investment management and election by the Vestry, offer to serve a five-year term as Trustee of the parish Endowment Fund. One new member per year.
Special Events at St. Michaels for 2008
A significant number of special events occur throughout the year at St. Michael's. These events provide not only a time for parishioners to have fellowship and worship together, but also an excellent opportunity for lay ministry. Each event requires coordinators and assistants. Many also require food preparation and service. Volunteering to assist in one or more of these annual events can be especially appropriate for individuals who prefer to work on defined projects for several hours or several days.
Evangelism Event: A special opportunity to gather as a parish family for an evening meal and to hear an exciting speaker.
Kanuga Weekend: A weekend (Friday - Sunday) at Kanuga, a regional Episcopal conference center in the North Carolina mountains near Hendersonville. This event, usually scheduled for late winter/early spring, offers individuals of all ages an opportunity to share quality time with other parishioners. Meals are provided and some activities are planned, however, participants have free time to enjoy hiking, outlet shopping.
Shrove Tuesday: Pancake Supper, Shrove Tuesday
Easter Sunday Brunch: A festive, parish breakfast buffet on Easter morning prior to the 10:30 a.m. service.
Vacation Bible School: A week of classes, crafts, music and worship for children aged 3 - 12, daily from 9 till 12, usually scheduled for early June. Teachers and activity leaders are especially needed for this very popular event.
Michaelmas Celebration: Weekend celebration around Feast Day of our patron saint, St. Michael and All Angels.
Blessing of Animals: Annual service scheduled on a Sunday near the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi. How many times do you get to worship with your pets? Bring your dog, cat, parakeet, etc. and have them blessed during a short service dedicated to the work of St. Francis.
Christmas Pageant: A traditional costumed tableaux with children of all ages enacting the birth of Christ. Held annually on Christmas Eve at 5 p.m.
Days of Healing Prayer at St. Michael's: For information, call Patti Sosnowski.
Many musical events throughout the year.