SACRISTANS
 
Our appreciation and understanding of the role of the sacristan has developed hand-in-hand with our growing understanding of the teaching of the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) that all the members of the church “should be led to take that full, conscious, and active part in liturgical celebrations which is demanded by the very nature of the liturgy” ( Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, 14). Since this is the paramount concern, the worshiping community needs ministers to help it realize this goal. In order for all members of a community to take their full, conscious and active part in liturgical celebrations there needs to be someone who prepares and oversees the things of the liturgy. One such minister is the Sacristan. Strong organizational skills are indispensable for the ministry of Sacristan. He/She should be comfortable communicating and working with people.
Some of the responsibilities of the Sacristan are to:

1) Open the church for the celebration
2) Make sure a.c./heat is on prior to celebration
3) Set up and put out everything needed for the celebration
4) Find last minute substitutes for absent ministers
5) Clean up and lock the church after the celebration

Training is provided for all prospective Sacristans. The Sacristan is instructed prior to each celebration by the Liturgy Coordinator.
 
Presently Sacred Heart has nine regular Sacristans who minister at weekday and weekend Masses, as well as funerals, weddings, holy days, holidays, etc.
 

For information call Sacred Heart's Parish office at 337-364-4439

updated: 7-27-22