Thoughts on:  PASTORAL AIDES AND COMMUNION ASSISTANTS

Worship is a weekly explosion of joy commanded by God. It is designed to help the whole body grow and celebrate, praise and pray, learn and teach. Worship is not only an obligation. It is also the response of God's people. We gather to: sing and give thanks, receive instructions, get forgiveness in Word and Sacrament, and refuel for the task of life. Someone once said; "When the WORSHIP is over, the SERVICE begins." We believe that at Community!

Every Worship celebration at Community is designed to be a unique, life-changing, awe-inspiring, experience. However, it isn't a performance by the Pastor designed to entertain a bunch of spectators.

Worship is the work of all of God's people. Therefore, to represent all of us (and to illustrate our philosophy that we are all ministers, willing to assist with the details of each celebration), and to "aid the Pastor" as he leads the worship, we use a PASTORAL AIDE and COMMUNION ASSISTANTS.

These men are ambassadors and representatives of our Community. Together with the ushers, they may be the first person to greet a visitor. And because of their visibility, they provide a specific person to talk to. I know it's a heavy responsibility, but it's also a wonderful way to use God's gifts, to serve the Body, and to help make each Worship experience great.

Instructions & Helpful Hints for COMMUNION ASSISTANTS:

1.Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early, and be sure to contact the Pastoral Aide - to let him know you’re there and get any specific instructions for the service.

2.You may sit anywhere you wish during the service, but keep in mind that you’ll have to exit and return during communion, so sitting near an end is helpful.

3.Check the worship folder or Community Connections for the order of service, that way you’ll know exactly when communion is occurring during the service.

4.After the Words of Institution, go up to the altar rail to receive communion with the other worship leaders.

5.Assist in the distribution of communion, following any specific instructions given by the Pastor or other worship leaders.

A SUMMARY

One of the key words you should think about as you perform this service is the word "aide" or “assistant.” That's what you are doing: aiding and assisting the Pastor, aiding and assisting the people, aiding and assisting  everyone to Worship. Don't ever take it lightly. Be sure to do it with a smile on your face and joy in your heart!