Parishioners of St. Mary Immaculate Parish are actively involved in many forms of ministry. Below is a brief description of each of the ministries available. If you are interested in participating in any of these ministries and would like more information, please contact the individuals noted below or call the Parish office at (707) 263-4401 for further assistance.
Liturgical Ministries
Sacristans – This group of parishioners takes care of cleaning the Sanctuary and Sacristy of the Church, laundering the linens, taking inventory of church supplies, setting the altar for Mass, cleaning up after Mass, may organize holy day colors and decorations, and anything else needed for celebration of the Mass. Keeps all Church items, such as cruets, chalices, linens, oils, processional crosses, and candles in good condition.
Altar Servers – All parishioners (who have received the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist) are invited to serve at the altar in this ministry.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) or Eucharistic Ministers (EM) – This important ministry provides ministers of the Eucharist at the weekend Masses. You must be 16 years of age and have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation. Some EMs choose to extend their duties as Ministers to the Sick or Homebound. They take Holy Communion once a week to those that can not attend Mass.
Greeters/Ushers – This group of parishioners welcome those joining in celebration at each Mass and attend to the safety and comfort of the congregation.
Ministers of the Word (Lectors) – A rewarding way to participate in our Sunday worship is to proclaim God’s Word as a lector.
Music, Cantors and Choirs – Each weekend Mass has, at least, one person to provide music and sung Mass parts.
Administrative Ministries
Communications – These parishoners focus on providing effective and efficient communication about parish life to the St. Mary Immaculate Parish community. They are the contact for Bulletin submissions and website postings. Contact Lisa Lambert at 707-263-4401 ext. 4.
Finance Committee – The Parish Finance Committee, an advisory body required by Canon Law, is made up of at least three members of the parish selected by the Pastor. The members are selected because of their expertise in general business management, banking, insurance and/or law. Their responsibilities include oversight of the parish accounting system and the development of the annual budget which is submitted to the Pastoral Council and then to the Pastor for his review and approval.
Pastoral Council – The primary purpose of the Council is to accept responsibility, as a collaborative and consultative body, with the pastor for the life and mission of the Church in the parish. Areas that are addressed are education, evangelization, finance, liturgy, maintenance, pastoral care, outreach planning. Members are nominated and selected by the Pastor and other Council members. Members are a cross-section of people from St Mary’s, St Peter’s, English-speaking and Spanish-speaking communities.
Educational Ministries
Religious Education – This ministry encompasses all phases and aspects of catechesis in our faith community. Faith formation is a life-long process, cradle to grave. Our task is to form, inform, and transform so that our lives model that of Christ. Contact Pat Giacommini at 707-263-4401 ext. 5.
RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) – The RCIA is a formation process for unbaptized adults seeking baptism and full initiation into the Catholic Church; and for adults baptized in another Christian faith tradition seeking full communion with the Catholic Church; and baptized Catholic adults who were never catechized in their faith.
Sacramental Preparation for Children & Youth – Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist constitute the “sacraments of initiation” by which a believer receives the remission of original and personal sin, begins a new life in Christ and the Holy Spirit, and is incorporated into the Church, the Body of Christ.
Marriage Preparation – A 3-evening series of classes to prepare a couple for the Sacrament of Marriage.
Baptism for Infants and Small Children Preparation – one-time class for Parents and Godparents of babies and small children who will be Baptized. In Spanish, on the 1st Sunday of each month. In English, by appointment only.
Youth Ministry for Middle and High School – a new program to provide social and formational experience for our young people through a variety of encounters, including Bible Study, retreats, Diocesan events, etc.
Vacation Bible School – This is a week long summer program for children ages 4 and older. There are many volunteer opportunities for Middle and High school youth and adults. Contact Lisa Lambert 707-263-4401 ext. 4.
Parish Organizations and Clubs
Knights of Columbus – The Knights are an organization of Catholic men who promote the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism. Knights contribute to the welfare of their parish and communities, and seek to help the needy through financial and volunteer support. Membership in the Knights of Columbus provides the opportunity for wholesome association with congenial companions who are first of all practical Catholic gentlemen. Through many constructive activities of Christian fraternity, members are enabled to render service to their Church, their country and their fellowman. Catholic men 18 years of age or older interested in joining this organization should contact Jim Goetz at 707-237-1561 or Pat Lambert at 707-263-7111.
Knights Ladies Auxiliary – This is a group of ladies (some wives of Knights of Columbus members, but not required) who meet once a month, to promote service and outreach programs in the Community. Their major project of the year is a Christmas gift of toiletries and blankets to the convalescent hospitals and Freedom House, a domestic violence shelter. Contact: Donna Yzaguirre.
Belles of St Mary’s – A group of women who meet once a month. They plan a variety of fundraisers to support parish improvement projects such as the installation of the Bell Tower and renovation of St Mary’s Hall Kitchen. Contact Kelly Thorn.
St Peter’s Men and Ladies’ Club – A group of parishioners who regularly attend Mass at St Peter Mission Church and support its maintenance and Kelseyville community events. Contact: Marilyn Sommerfield.
Outreach
Minister to the Sick or Homebound – individuals who take Holy Communion, friendship and encouragement to those confined to their homes or hospitals by age or illness.
Parish Food Pantry – Specific food items are collected during November, sorted and stored. They are distributed by the bagful to individuals, families and homeless during the year. Anyone who asks is helped with some food. This program is in regular need of volunteers to sort the food, and arrange the bags. Bags are distributed during office hours, by the office staff.
Catholic Charities Food Box Program – The 4th Monday of the month, boxes of food are assembled and distributed to 100+ families at St Peter’s Glebe Hall in Kelseyville.
St Mary’s Hall and Glebe Hall – Facilities that are available for public use. They may be reserved by calling the Parish office. A donation to cover heating is welcome. Proof of liability insurance coverage is required. Currently the halls are used for Zumba, Vietnam Veterans, 4-H and the Redbud Audubon Society.