Liturgy

“There are different gifts but the same Spirit; there are different ministries but the same Lord; there are different works but the same God who accomplishes all of them in everyone. To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.”

– 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Sacred Heart Liturgy Commission Vision Statement

To prepare and cultivate a worship experience with full, active, conscientious participation while educating the faithful, so that through their work and the Sacraments all may encounter the joy of Christ.

Every person is called to contribute to the liturgy in a manner suited to his or her unique talents. For some, this means serving in a liturgical ministry at Mass.

When the faithful of our community gather, we become a visible sign of the Body of Christ. During this “sacrament of unity” the whole Body of the Church is involved in many different ways. Many of the important Liturgical functions of our celebrations are entrusted to the laity, who are drawn from the community, trained by the parish, and entrusted with the sincere devotion and decorum expected of them by God’s people. Lectors, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, Altar servers, Hospitality Ministers (Ushers), Greeters and Music Ministers all exercise a genuine liturgical function and are an integral part of our celebrations.

Lay ministers foster the mission of Christ that flows from baptism and put their gifts at the disposal of the community for the common good and in response to specific needs. Sacred Heart is blessed to have many dedicated men, women, and children, who generously share the gifts entrusted to them by the Holy Spirit to serve the People of God. When people with particular qualities are matched with the liturgical roles that call for those qualities, the liturgy can speak powerfully to us, moving us to prayer.

”All parishioners are invited and encouraged to share their talents and interest with the Sacred Heart community by becoming involved in a liturgical ministry. Please consider serving for one of the ministries listed in the menu on the right side of this page, just click on the ministry of your choice:

Please email us at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site to register or for more information.

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased at a price. Therefore, glorify God in your body.”

– 1 Cor. 6:1920

Guidelines for Dress

As liturgical ministers we need to lead by example and dress in a manner that expresses how we choose to present ourselves to God and to one another, even when not scheduled, so as to be able to serve if called upon. Bodily demeanor (gestures and dress) are part of the elements for worthy reception of the Eucharist and that such acts “ought to convey respect, solemnity, and joy of the moment when Christ becomes our guest” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1387).

The Eucharist is a most holy occasion and thus should be treated in the reverent, holy manner—in body, mind, spirit, and dress. Ministers shall prepare inwardly and portray their outward preparation in appearance by appropriate and modest dress in respect for our Lord and His Presence in the Holy Mass. If one does not come dressed appropriately they may be asked to refrain from presenting oneself for service.

MEN

  • Professional/Modest attire
  • Dress trousers/pants
  • Collared shirts
  • Closed shoes and socks

WOMEN

  • Professional/Modest attire
  • Dress trousers/pants
  • Dresses/skirts knee length or longer

WEEKDAY MASSES

The dignity of the service being offered by those who perform any service in the Sanctuary (or in any liturgical-related duties) remains the same for all Masses or public services (for instance, the priest vests the same at all Masses). Therefore, the minimum of “business casual” provided above (shirts/blouses with collars, full length slacks, nice shoes, etc.) worn with modesty and respect.

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Altar Servers

The Altar Server Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church involves young parishioners who assist the priest during Mass and other liturgical services. This ministry provides a valuable opportunity for youth to engage more deeply in the liturgy, develop a greater understanding of the Mass, and contribute to the worship experience within the parish.

To sign-up please contact the parish office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site or call (936) 756-8186 to provide the child’s name, grade and preferred training date.

A/V Ministry

The Audio Visual Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church is responsible for managing and enhancing the church’s audiovisual equipment and services. This ministry handles tasks such as operating sound systems, managing video recordings, and facilitating live-streaming of services and events.

Contact: Parish Office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site or call (936) 756-8186

Altar Society

The Altar Society’s main objectives are to cherish and promote devotion to the Most Blessed Sacrament and to supply the necessities of the altar and sanctuary. Responsibilities include caring for the altar, altar linens and priest’s vestments; making or purchasing various religious articles needed and/or requested by the priest (e.g. linens, stoles, pall, vestments, etc.); The organization also promotes Christian living and service in Sacred Heart parish, fostering the spiritual development of the women of the parish and to provide opportunities for friendship and community.

Contact:  Parish Office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site or call (936) 756-8186

Art and Environment

The Art and Environment Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church focuses on creating and maintaining the aesthetic aspects of the church’s worship space. This ministry is responsible for designing and arranging decorations, including seasonal and liturgical displays, to enhance the visual experience of Mass and other liturgical celebrations. By using art and décor to reflect the church’s themes and seasons, the ministry helps to foster a meaningful and spiritually enriching environment for worship.

Contact: Trinh Waterhouse, trinhtphan@yahoo.com

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion

The Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion at Sacred Heart Catholic Church assist in distributing the Eucharist during Mass. These trained volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that the sacrament of Communion is administered reverently and efficiently, supporting the clergy in upholding the spiritual nourishment and care of the parish community.

Contact:

Parish Office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site or (936) 756-8186

Hospitality

The Hospitality Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church is dedicated to creating a warm and welcoming environment for all parishioners and visitors. Volunteers in this ministry assist with greeting attendees, during liturgical services and any parish events. Their role is to ensure that everyone feels included and valued, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the parish.

Contact:

Please contact the parish office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site with Subject: Ministry. Include the name of the ministry, phone, and email address with legal first and last name.

Lectors

The Lector Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church involves volunteers who are responsible for reading Scripture passages during Mass and other liturgical services. Lectors prepare and deliver the Word of God with clarity and reverence, helping to engage the congregation in the liturgy and enhance their spiritual experience. This ministry plays a crucial role in the celebration of the Eucharist by ensuring that the readings are conveyed effectively and meaningfully.

*Please contact the parish office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site with Subject: Ministry. Include the name of the ministry, phone, and email address with legal first and last name.

Sacristans

The Sacristan Ministry at Sacred Heart Catholic Church is responsible for the preparation and upkeep of the church’s liturgical items and spaces. Sacristans ensure that everything needed for Mass, such as vestments, altar linens, and sacred vessels, is properly set up and in order. They also manage the maintenance of the worship area, contributing to a smooth and reverent celebration of the liturgy by ensuring that all necessary items and arrangements are in place.

Interested in serving as a Sacristan?

Please contact the parish office at worship@fantastic-pink-whale.15-204-101-117.cpanel.site with the Subject: Ministry. Include the name of the ministry, phone, and email address with legal first and last name.

Para el segundo año de preparación sacramental, los padres siguen siendo los primeros maestros de la fe (CCC n.º 2226). Este es un rol continuo tanto para los padres como para la vida de los estudiantes.

La preparación sacramental se llevará a cabo una vez al mes. Se pide a las familias que asistan semanalmente a la misa dominical, compartan el Evangelio en casa, participen en un retiro, recen el Rosario y que los padres asistan a una charla mensual con nuestro querido sacerdote.

Se ponen recursos a disposición de los padres, especialmente en lo relativo a la misa. Se pide a los estudiantes que traigan un misal para que lo firmen al finalizar la misa de su elección (sábado o domingo).

A continuación, se presentan las fechas de las charlas dirigidas a los padres. Los estudiantes asistirán a clases en un aula en la misma fecha y horario: de 6:30 p. m. a 8:00 p. m.

Se realizarán evaluaciones a los estudiantes; por favor, consulten las Pautas Sacramentales.

La preparación para la Primera Reconciliación y la Primera Comunión está abierta a todos los jóvenes bautizados - a partir del segundo grado escolar - que cumplan con los siguientes requisitos del programa:

  • La familia debe ser miembro registrado de la Parroquia del Sagrado Corazón. Si no son miembros registrados del Sagrado Corazón, los padres deben presentar una carta del párroco de la parroquia en la que estén registrados, otorgando permiso para que el niño se prepare y celebre los sacramentos en el Sagrado Corazón. También se requiere el permiso del párroco si la familia está registrada en el Sagrado Corazón, pero solicita que la celebración se realice en otra iglesia católica.
  • Los padres deben presentar una copia original del certificado de bautismo del niño antes de la fecha límite establecida. Si el niño no ha sido bautizado en la fe católica, realizará una "Profesión de Fe".
  • El niño debe contar con un mínimo de un año de educación religiosa previa, cursada en el programa de formación en la fe de la parroquia (FE EN EL HOGAR) o en una escuela católica.
  • El niño debe estar inscrito y participando activamente en el año actual del programa de educación religiosa de la parroquia (Preparación Sacramental) o en una escuela católica.
  • La familia debe asistir a la Misa dominical con regularidad.
  • El niño y sus padres deben asistir a TODAS las sesiones de preparación sacramental.
  • Una vez completadas todas las sesiones de preparación requeridas, el niño participará en una entrevista para evaluar su disposición para recibir los sacramentos.

El Párroco, el Coordinador de Preparación Sacramental y los padres determinarán conjuntamente la disposición del niño - tanto catequética como espiritual - para recibir los sacramentos.

El año pasado, las familias de primer año siguieron el nuevo plan de estudios «Fe en el hogar». Aunque todavía tenemos mucho en lo que podemos crecer, nos alegra enormemente que nuestras familias hayan completado el año y que ahora estén practicando su fe y siguiendo un nuevo estilo de vida.«Fe en el hogar» es un programa novedoso en el que nuestras familias no tienen que asistir en persona ni semanalmente, sino solo una vez al mes. Se pide a las familias que asistan a la misa dominical cada semana, compartan el Evangelio en casa, participen en un retiro, recen el Rosario y que los padres asistan a una charla mensual con nuestro querido sacerdote.Hay recursos disponibles para los padres, especialmente para la Misa. Se pide a los estudiantes que traigan un libro de misa para que lo firmen al finalizar la misa que elijan (sábado o domingo).A continuación, se presentan las fechas de las charlas para padres; los estudiantes estarán en clase el mismo día y horario: 6:30 PM a 8:00 PM.

For year 2, sacramental preparation, parents are still the first teachers of faith CCC#2226. This is an ongoing role for the parents and for the students' lives.

Sacramental preparation would be once a month. Families are asked to attend weekly Sunday mass, share the Gospel at home, participate in a retreat, pray the Rosary, and have parents attend a monthly talk with our beloved priest.

Resources are available to parents, especially for Mass. Students are asked to bring a Mass book to be signed by the end of the Mass of their choice (Saturday or Sunday).

Here are the dates for parent talks. The students will be in a classroom setting on the same date and time: 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Evaluations will be held for students, please refer to the Sacrament Guidelines.

First Reconciliation and First Communion preparation is open to all baptized youth, second grade or older, who meet the following program requirements:

  • Family must be registered members of Sacred Heart Parish. If not registered members of Sacred Heart, the parents must provide a letter from the pastor of the parish in which they are registered, granting permission for the child to prepare and to celebrate the sacraments at Sacred Heart.  Permission must also be granted by the pastor if registering at Sacred Heart, but requesting the celebration at another Catholic Church.
  • The parents must provide an original copy of the child’s Baptism Certificate by the declared deadline. If not baptized catholic, the child will make a “Profession of Faith”.
  • The child must have a minimum of one year of previous religious education in the parish faith formation program (FAITH AT HOME) or catholic school.
  • The child must be enrolled and actively participating in the current year of religious education in the parish religious Sacramental Preparation or catholic school.
  • The family must attend Sunday Mass regularly.
  • The child and their parents must attend ALL sacrament preparation sessions.
  • Upon completion of all required preparation sessions, the child will participate in an interview to evaluate the child’s readiness to receive the sacraments.

The Pastor, Sacramental Preparation Coordinator, and the parents together determine the child’s readiness, both catechetical and spiritual, to receive the sacraments.

Last year, first-year families followed the new Faith at Home curriculum. Even though we have a lot to grow in, we are very happy that our families have completed the year and are now practicing their faith and following a new way of life.  

Faith at Home is a new program where our families do not have to come in person weekly, but once a month. Families are asked to attend weekly Sunday mass, share the Gospel at home, participate in a retreat, pray the Rosary, and have parents attend a monthly talk with our beloved priest.  

Resources are available to parents, especially for Mass. Students are asked to bring a Mass book with them to be signed by the end of any Mass of their choice (Saturday or Sunday).  

Here are the dates for parent talks. The students will be in a classroom setting on the same date and time:

April 20th from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM

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