Then I said, “Here am I. Send me!” Isaiah 6:8
In a recent homily, Fr. Thomas said,…”You can expect God to place before you,…(no matter your age or life circumstances), numerous opportunities for you to create positive actions in the lives of others, our parish and our world.” And that you “will do this through…your generous sharing of your time…and your God-given talents and abilities…”
Six and half years ago, our pastor, Fr. Bob Kelly, suggested that we become a volunteer parish. Although saving money was one reason, the other reason was that volunteers tend to take ownership in their parish. They give their time and talent to help the parish succeed. We see this happen in countless ways at St. Matthews. Often a parishioner will mention a door sticking or a lock not working properly and say, “I’ll come down during the week and get that fixed.” We are also fortunate to have our “Three Amigos” – Bob, Tom and Tony – who are always ready to investigate any maintenance problems on our campus. If they can’t fix it, they will find someone who can! Our office receptionists, Linda, Josie, Chris, and Joanne are all volunteers! Our choir consists of volunteers. The parishioners who lead our parish – trustees, Parish Council and Finance Council members are all volunteers. And yes, the Volunteer Director is also a volunteer. Our parish is strong and successful because of our volunteers. If you see an area where you would like to volunteer, contact Mary at or call the Parish Center at 651-224-9793.
Lectors: We now have two lectors serving at each Mass. One lector will read the welcome and the first reading. The second lector will process to the sanctuary carrying the lectionary and placing it on the ambo. The second lector will read the second reading and the Prayers of the Faithful. Lectors must be at least in 7th grade. If interested, contact the Parish Center at 651-224-9793 or Mary at for further information.
Thank You: The Prayer for Peace, which is said at the end of each Mass, can now be found inside the back cover of the Gather song book. We thank the following volunteers who gathered on a weekday morning to attach the prayer to each book: Kathy G., Kathy S., Mooreen S., Linda S., Isaac C. and Cristina C.
WE ARE A VOLUNTEER PARISH!
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