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Definitions of Ministries are in alphabetical order.
A
Adoration Society
Parishioners commit to pray in the church
before the Exposed Blessed Sacrament for an increase in vocations to the
Priesthood and Religious Life. They may sign-up for one hour once or twice
a month or more. Our 24-hour Adoration is held on the First and
Third Monday of each month.
Altar
Guild Ministry
Members work in teams of two or three on Mondays or Fridays to fill altar
candles with oil, water plants, wash the holy vessels used at Mass, and
organize missalettes. Each team works once a month. Other members wash
and iron the small linens used at Mass and the Priests' and Altar Servers'
albs. The Guild also works with the Environment and Art Ministry to decorate
the Church for Advent, Christmas, Lent, and Easter.
Altar
Server Ministry
The Altar Serving Ministry consists of young fellows and young
ladies from 5th to 12th grade who serve God, the Priests,
and the People of God by assisting them at weekday and Sunday Masses.
They are first instructed in the parts of the Liturgy, the order of the
Mass, proper decorum, and care for sacred articles and garments.
After a year of serving in the ministry, students have the option of serving
at funerals and weddings as needed.
B
Bereavement
Ministry
This group assists the family at the time of death.
They provide counseling, help with arrangements, help in planning the
liturgy, and follow-up contact with the family. Members perform the funeral
vigil service at the funeral home or church. Training is available for
volunteers who serve in this ministry.
Bible
Study (Tuesdays) Brochure
Bible Study gives participants an opportunity to delve with others into
the study of the Bible. Weekly gatherings include a lecture followed by
small group discussion. Bible Study is held on Tuesday mornings from 9:15
- 11:15 a.m. Wednesday evening Bible Study to start Fall 2003.
Binky Patrol
The Binky Patrol sew or knit small quilts for babies and children with
AIDS or other illnesses, and for babies born with addictions. The quilts
are distributed through CHOC (Children's Hospital Orange County), Birthright,
Laura's House, Toby's House, Cathy's House and other facilities that care
for babies and children in need. These quilts not only give warmth but
also comfort. The Binky Patrol meets at St. Edward from 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.
every second Tuesday of the month. Donations of fabric, flannel, fleece,
and batting are needed.
Blue
Army (World Apostolate of Fatima)
is a movement of millions throughout the world that responds to the requests
made by the Blessed Virgin Mary at Fatima, Portugal in 1917. Mary asked
for personal conversion, daily rosary for world peace, prayers and sacrifices
for sinners who have no one to pray for them, and reparation to the Eucharistic
Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The Blue Army meets in Church
to sing hymns, pray the rosary, and pray Fatima prayers every Tuesday
evening after the 5:30 p.m. Mass.
Boy Scouts/Cub Scouts
of America
Cub
Scouts, part of Boy Scouts of America, is for young boys in first through
fifth grades in our parish. The program includes activities, ideas, and
projects to help boys develop mind, body and soul.
C
Cancer Support Group
(H.E.L.P.)
Bi-monthly meetings to pray together and discuss practical treatment issues
such as nutrition, exercise, rest, and stress relief. We also give referrals
and information regarding parish community resources.
Children's
Liturgy of the Word
During the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass, children in preschool through third
grade are dismissed after the opening prayers to Knight Hall, where they
hear the Sunday readings adapted for their level of understanding. The
children are divided by age into small groups to discuss the gospel and
participate in an activity to reinforce its message. The children return
to the church, after the Prayer of the Faithful, to be with their parents
for the remainder of the Mass.
Children's
Religious Education (CRE)
"To know God is to love God." Parents are encouraged to enroll
children of preschool age through sixth grade in Children's Religious
Education (CRE) (Formerly this program was called "CCD" or,
before Vatican II, "Catechism.") In CRE children learn about
God and the Church. An emphasis is placed on following the message of
Jesus Christ in the sacred Scriptures as well as the teaching tradition
of the Catholic Church. Two educational opportunities are available for
children-- classroom instruction and Children's Liturgy of the Word. Classroom
instruction is available for children grades 1-6. After school classes
that combine instruction in the faith and spiritual formation are offered
from 4:30 - 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. On Sundays, children
who are preparing for either the initiation sacraments (The Catechumenate
Adapted for Children) or for First Communion are dismissed from the Sunday
9:00 a.m. Mass to classrooms where they study Sunday Scriptures and Church
doctrine. The second program for children from preschool through third
grade, takes place during the 9:30 Sunday Mass and is called "Children's
Liturgy of the Word".
Christian Service –
Food Distribution
Our on-site Office is open 3 days per week to serve those
in our community who are in need. The services offered include food administration,
clothing vouchers, and bus passes. We also offer financial assistance
(based on available funds), and/or referrals for rent/lodging, utilities,
counseling, legal assistance, medical, employment, automotive/DMV, caregivers,
transportation, miscellaneous fees. We also sponsor an annual Red Cross
Blood Drive.
Circle
of Praise (Prayer Group)
Circle of Praise is a charismatic prayer group that uses the gifts of
the Holy Spirit to praise and serve God. This group meets on Wednesday
mornings.
Contemplative Prayer
This group gathers for quiet, reflective prayer. Occasionally, time is
extended to provide instruction and sharing for those who would like to
learn how to improve their time spent in prayer.
Cursillo
-
More Info
This is a worldwide movement within the Catholic Church. Its mission is
the Christian leavening of environments achieved through natural leaders,
preferably in groups. This is accomplished by providing Catholics with
the means to live and share what is fundamental to being a Christian so
that through the impact of their personalities, they may inject the spirit
and sense of Gospel into those factors which actively shape environments.
Those who sign up for Cursillo attend a weekend experience. There are
eight Cursillo's diocesan wide annually * four for men and four for women.
D
E
English as a Second Language (E.S.L.)
Classes for those who do not have English as their primary language are
held on Tuesdays from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Christian Service office.
Contact Maria Simmons to register. Spanish Classes are also available
on Tuesday from 12:00 pm to 2 pm.
Environment
and Art Ministry
The Environment and Art Ministry enhances and supports the liturgical
celebration by decorating the altar and church, making and hanging banners,
and maintaining the plants.
Eucharistic
Ministers
These Ministers exercise the roles of host and servant at the Eucharistic
banquet. They distribute communion under both species (the Body and Blood
of Jesus Christ) at Mass. Some Eucharistic Ministers deliver the Bread
of Life to the sick and homebound. Eucharistic Ministers serve on teams
and are scheduled in advance for Masses. They must be registered members
of the parish and are trained to fulfill their obligation with dignity
and reverence.
Eucharistic Ministry
to the Sick or Homebound
When parishioners become sick or homebound and are unable
to come to Church to celebrate Mass and the sacraments with the community,
the parish sends someone to them. One of the priests or lay Eucharistic
Ministers to the Sick will visit them in their home, the hospital, or
in a nursing or assisted living home. They will bring Jesus' healing presence
in the sacraments of Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick and/or Holy
Communion and continue to visit them as long as they are needed.
F
Faith in Action/Sick and Homebound
This caregiver program reaches out to the sick and homebound, whether
in homes or hospitals. Numerous services are provided including: clerical
help, handyman services, Meals in Crisis, friendly phone calls, and transportation
to Mass, medical appointments, shopping and other necessary stops.
Finance
Commission
The Finance Commission meets with the pastor on a monthly basis to review
and oversee the financial condition of the parish. Members serve at the
invitation of the pastor and are selected because of their strong business
or financial background. Members assist other commissions in the preparation
of their budgets, review requests for fund-raisers, and oversee insurance
and legal issues such as contracts and personnel issues. The Finance Commission
is advisory only. The Pastor makes all decisions after review by the commission
and recommendation.
G
Girl
Scouts of America
Girl Scout programs are available for girls in kindergarten through eighth
grade in our parish. The programs include activities, ideas, and projects
to help girls develop mind, body and soul.
Guess
Who's Coming to Dinner Brochure
This is a social ministry where eight to ten adults get together for food,
fun, and friendships at least four to five times during the calendar year.
Groups are formed from sign ups in late January or February, are together
for one year, and operate independently. All groups come together for
an annual Finale, usually held in January. There is no charge to participants.
H
Hospitality Commission
The Hospiltality Commission fosters a sense of welcome and community by
hosting social functions to help new and seasoned parishioners know their
parish neighbors. The Hospitality Commission provides and supports bi-
annual welcome receptions for newly registered parishioners, hosts the
Fourth of July barbecue and a family oriented reception after Noel Night
Christmas Concert.
I
J
K
Knights
of Columbus
(Fr. Louis Knight Council 12451)
The Knights of Columbus are practical Catholic men who are strong defenders
of the Catholic faith. The founding principles of the order are charity,
unity, fraternity, and patriotism. Knights are dedicated to support family,
Church, clergy, and country. They support Catholic education by awarding
scholarships to local schools and religious programs, and by offering
fellowships and student loans for members and their families on a national
level. For more information on the Knights of Columbus see the Profile
or read the latest monthly Knightline
Newsletter or visit www.kofc12451.org.
L
Lectors
(Readers)
Lectors bring the Scriptures to life during the Liturgy of the Word at
Mass and during special liturgies. By proclaiming the Word of God, they
grow in their appreciation for Scripture. Lectors are scheduled in advance
for Masses.
The Legion of Mary
This is a worldwide lay apostolate that seeks to extend the knowledge
and presence of Jesus Christ. Members place themselves under the banner
of Mary so that with her help, they may develop greater holiness in their
lives. There are two types of members: active and auxiliary. Active members
attend a weekly meeting (Monday nights at 7:30 p.m.) and perform two hours
of work per week. Work may consist of door-to-door evangelization, homebound
visitation, prison ministry, or teaching catechism. Auxiliary members
pray the Rosary and legion prayers every day.
M
Marriage Enrichment Brochure
Called “Living Catholic Marriage”, this ministry aims to help married couples and their families live closer and more faith-filled lives. It is an opportunity for married couples to grow in their love for each other and gain the support and friendship of other couples in living their Catholic faith.
Mary's
Corner Gift Shop & Lending Library
Mary's Corner Gift Shop and Lending Library was established as a service
to parishioners. Religious books and over 180 videos on varied subjects
may be borrowed for two week periods. Small religious items are available
for purchase. Mary's Corner is open every Sunday (except for holidays)
from 9 a.m. to 12 noon.
Music
Ministry
The role of
Music Ministry is to engage the community in song and heighten the personal
experience of the liturgy.
N
Natural
Family Planning
This group promotes the understanding of Natural Family Planning and encourages
couples to learn and use it. Parishioners are directed to resources about
Natural Family Planning that are available at the parish and at the Diocese.
New
Parishioners
New Parishioners' Welcome Receptions are held on a bi-annual basis to
help newly registered parishioners feel welcome and to help them learn
more about their new parish. Parish staff and leadership attend and are
introduced. Refreshments are served.
O
P
Parish School Commission
St. Edward the Confessor Parish School works together as a faith community,
modeled on the family, to provide each student with a Catholic education.
The purpose of this education is to develop a well integrated individual
equipped with the skills, attitudes, knowledge, and insights needed to
take his/her place in an ever-changing world in accordance with the teaching
of Christ. Opportunities and experiences for apostolic service to God,
Church, community, family and one another are provided in order to promote
an in-depth commitment to Christian values and to Christian service. The
School Commission performs a dual purpose of leadership and service to
St. Edward the Confessor Parish School. It acts as the overseeing body
to the operation of the school, consistent with the polices of the Diocese
of Orange
Parent
Guild
Founding Pastor Fr. Louis Knight created the St. Edward Parent Guild Organization
in 1991 to place the responsibility of fundraising and volunteer work
for the school on the parents as a body. The purpose of the Guild has
been further expanded to a role of advocacy and communication to the Commissions
in the parish. Members of the Parent Guild are the Chair, Chair elect,
Treasurer and Secretary, which are elected positions for a two year term.
Also included are the Principal, Vice Principal, School Chaplain, School
Service Coordinator and all fundraising chairs. Meetings are held once
a month and all parents of the school may attend. The Chair works closely
with the Pastor, Principal, and School.
Pre-School Commission
This group of adults guides and counsels the staff of our Parish Pre-School.
They review policy and Pre-School guidelines. They assist the staff with
communication to parents and the Parish. St. Edward Parish Pre-school
helps children grow uniquely in their spirit, abilities, and interests
through a well planned Catholic curriculum. Each and every child is shown
that they have a special place in God's world. A developmentally appropriate
curriculum is planned for the age span of the children within the age
group and implemented with attention to the different interests and needs
of the children. Special attention is given to emotional, social, creative,
and cognitive development. The program features: Catholic traditions,
practices, and values; hands on learning experiences; weekly movement
program; chapel; music; drama; field trips; Christmas pageant; and seasonal
parties.
Q
R
RCIA
(Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults)
The Adult Catechumenate, also referred to as the Rite of Christian Initiation
of Adults (RCIA), is a community based, four phase process to nurture
and guide adults who are seeking information and ultimately initiation
into the Catholic faith. The four phases of RCIA are Inquiry, Catechumenate,
Enlightenment, and Mystagogia. The length of time to complete the process
depends on each participant's individual needs, however conversion and
initiation usually revolve around the liturgical calendar. The Easter
season is the traditional time when adults are initiated into the faith
through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and reception of the Holy
Eucharist. After adults have been accepted into the Catechumenate, they
are required to gather with the RCIA team once per week for catechetical
instruction and spiritual formation (2 hours on Tuesday evenings) and
to join together for communal prayer and reflection on the Scriptures
at Sunday liturgy.
Red Cross Blood Drive
The Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled at the parish in June and September.
The Christian Service Office, in coordination with the Red Cross, administers
it. Volunteers recruit donors after Sunday Masses for two weeks prior
to the Blood Drive. On the day of the Blood Drive, volunteers provide
assistance on-site.
Religious
Education/Faith Formation
The mission of Religious Education and Formation is to provide a variety
of opportunities for people to grow in knowledge and love of God and His
Church. Adult Formation & Education, Spiritual formation and continued
education of adult members of the parish is a high priority. Numerous
programs provide opportunities for constant growth in a variety of ways.
Respect
Life
Respect Life is rooted in belief that: "Human life is sacred because
from its beginnings it involves the creative action of God and it remains
for ever is a special relationship with the creator, who is its sold end.
"(From the Catechism of the Catholic Church) St.
Edward Parish works to live out this teaching by defending life from conception
to natural death. It supports of life centers and the life chain, and
works toward ending abortion, euthanasia, mercy killing, capital punishment.
Retrouvaille
This is a program for married, separated, and divorced couples who want
their marriages to work, but who currently have hurting relationships.
The Retrouvaille program includes a weekend experience and six follow-up
sessions over three months. Emphasis is on communications between husband
and wife. Retrouvaille is a French word meaning rediscovery.
S
Serenity
Days
Serenity Days offer busy women the opportunity to set aside time for communal
inspiration, refreshment, and prayer. Serenity Days are held on Tuesday
mornings four times a year.
Serra
Club of Southern Orange County
The Serra Club of Southern Orange County is part of an international organization
devoted to praying for vocations under the banner of Blessed Junipero
Serra. We are the 4th active club in Orange County. For the most recent
bulletin and to learn more about the club click
here.
Small
Church Communities
St. Edward is the diocesan site for on-going adult education
offering classes in Church history, sacraments, social teachings, etc.,
for ten weeks each semester. Highly educated and qualified instructors
are provided through the Office for Pastoral Ministry at the Diocese of
Orange.
Social Justice - click here
The Social Justice committee meets every third Monday of the month in the Church Meeting Room at 7 p.m.
While Charity takes care of immediate basic human needs, like feeding the hungry and clothing the naked, Social Justice asks the question, "Why are people hungry or naked?" We are called to attack the root cause of social injustices. Working to achieve fair wages, health care, civil rights, and equal opportunities for education and work skills is the focus of Social Justice. In truth, we need both Charity and Social Justice so that all may have the opportunity for a productive life with dignity. As Pius the XI reminds us "Charity will never be true charity unless it takes justice into account….Let no one attempt with small gifts of charity to exempt himself from the great duties imposed by justice."
St. Anne's Circle
St. Edward Moms meet for park days every Wednesday, monthly programs with speakers, mom's night out, family activities, couples activities, playgroups and much more. Please refer to the St. Anne's brochure for more information or the St. Anne's Circular for a schedule of activities.
St.
Edward Adult Seniors (SEA)
A liturgy at noon followed by a catered luncheon for senior parishioners
is held every first Friday of the month (September thru June). At the
luncheon participants learn about other senior activities, meet new members,
and share fellowship. Raffle and card games are available. Reservations
are necessary.
St.
Joseph Blood Drive - Mission Hospital
Each year, more than four million Americans need blood transfusions of
which over 30% are children who cannot donate blood for others. While
our national population increases each year the number of donors remains
static—below 5%. Transfusions of blood and blood components are
required for accidents and trauma victims, for patients having surgery,
and patients receiving treatment for blood disorders such as cancer and
leukemia. Many hospitals are delaying any elective surgery in order to
meet life saving procedures. There is blood drive at St. Edward periodically
for Mission Hospital, Sisters of St. Joseph Ministry. A person can donate
every 56 days if desired. The drive is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus
Council 12451and will be held in Knight Hall. Please help with your precious
gift of your self.
St.
Vincent de Paul Society
Inspired by Gospel values, the Society of St. Vincent de
Paul, a Catholic lay organization, leads women and men to join together
to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to those who
are needy and suffering, in the tradition of its founder, Blessed Frederic
Ozanam, and patron, St. Vincent de Paul. Organized locally Vincentians
witness God’s love by embracing all works of charity and justice.
The Society collaborates with other people of good will in relieving need
and addressing its causes, making no distinction in those served because,
in them, Vincentians see the face of Christ.
Stephen Ministry
This is a program of our congregation that equips lay persons to provide
distinctively Christian one-to-one care to those who are experiencing
all kinds of life needs and circumstances, both in our congregation and
community. The Stephen Ministers reach out with God's love people who
are hurting - members and non-members alike.
T
Two
Hearts Prayer Group
This group meets on the evening of the 1st Friday of the month to adore
the Sacred Heart of Jesus and honor the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Music
begins the evening and is followed by the Prayer of Consecration of the
Two Hearts and a decade of the rosary. A speaker may talk on the spiritual
aspect of growth. The evening ends with adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
and Benediction.
U
Ushers
Ushers provide hospitality, comfort, and safety at Sunday Masses and other
special liturgies. Before Mass, ushers foster a sense of community by
welcoming attendees. Following all weekend Masses, ushers distribute the
weekly bulletin then make sure that the church is ready for the next liturgy.
V
W
Web
Ministry
The internet and web are important means of communication between St.
Edward the Confessor, parishioners, guests, and friends. This ministry
will help to provide real-time content, pictures, news, and events to
help make the St. Edward website a focal point of information to the St.
Edward community.
Wedding
Coordinators
Assist the bride and groom in planning the rehearsal and wedding ceremony,
and in completing the necessary paperwork. In addition, they serve as
the Church's ambassadors. They welcome people of many different faiths,
as well as "fallen away" Catholics, and help them feel at ease
in our Church during the sacrament of Matrimony.