Worship is the offering of our lives in thanksgiving to God. The aim of worship is to glorify God and to grow closer to Him.

Numerous Lay ministries are involved in "presenting all we are and all we do to God as acts of worship." Among these are:

Acolytes

This ministry is comprised of over thirty youth from the congregation. They regularly demonstrate great dedication to their ministry as they strive to improve their technique and conscientiously perform their duties.

Altar Guild

The Altar Guild prepares for all church services, Holy Eucharist, Morning Prayer, Baptisms, weddings and funerals. Five teams of able, willing workers take turns each week performing these duties.

Choirs

Choirs contribute immeasurably to parish worship, always striving for excellence, yet pointing beyond ourselves to God. There are five choirs including youth, adults and handbells. Almost every week of the choir year, one will find dedicated musicians of all ages rehearsing, learning, stretching their minds, developing talents all for the love of Him and opportunity to serve him.

Usher's Guild

On your first visit to St. Matthew's, the first person to greet you with a smile and a "Good Morning" is probably a member of the Usher's Guild. More than sixty members of St. Matthew's volunteer for this important job -- serving six to eight times a year during Sunday worship, funerals, and special events.

Lay Liturgical Leadership

Lay Liturgical Leadership includes seventeen Lay Eucharistic Ministers and thirteen Lay Readers. Responsibilities are divided in accordance with the Diocesan Canons. All are licensed within their respective areas of responsibility.