Opportunities for Service
There are many opportunities to share in the life and work of St. John’s. All members, and especially newcomers to the parish, are encouraged to get involved.
The Vestry
The Vestry, comprised of eligible members of the parish in good standing, meets monthly and serves for a three-year term. This body is responsible for managing and maintaining the church building and grounds, caring for the church’s fiscal affairs, and handling matters relating to the church corporation. The Vestry also oversees the life, work, and mission of the church and works closely with the rector, who acts as president, in setting policies and recommending programs.
The Annual Meeting
The full membership of the church usually meets in November of each year to elect Vestry members and to hear reports of the various organizations of the parish. A mid-year report is made during the summer.
Acolytes
Qualified men and boys over the age of ten assist the rector at liturgical services as crucifers, acolytes, and torchbearers.
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild is responsible for making the sanctuary ready for all services. Its members maintain the church’s liturgical requirements for services by preparing the altar, laundering linens, preserving the sacred vessels, and arranging the floral displays that beautify the church.
Ushers
Members of the church serve as ushers during the Sunday service and special liturgies. Their duties include greeting and assisting those who come to worship, distributing Sunday bulletins, and presenting the congregation’s offering during the liturgy.
Lectors
Lectors/lay readers are men of the parish who read the appointed Epistle. On occasion, they may conduct morning or evening prayer.
Caring Committee
This subcommittee of the parish women’s organization (ACW) calls on members of the parish who are ill, shut-ins, or elderly. Flowers from the church altar are delivered to various persons in the parish to express our love and concern.
St. Martha’s Guild
This group of women organizes and maintains the kitchen and schedules the coffee hour hosts.
Echo Soup Kitchen
Members of St. John’s Church assist in serving the evening meal at the ECHO Soup Kitchen in Newport, Kentucky, on the fourth Monday of each month.
Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN)
St. John's Church partners with other Northern Kentucky churches and charitable organizations to provide lunches, through a monthly free-will offering, for homeless families at the day center as well as other volunteer opportunities.