Ministry Highlight – Altar Guild

St. James Cathedral is not only known for its historic roots in the heart of the city, but serves as the seat of the Bishop and is the focal point for his ministry in the Anglican Diocese of Toronto. To maintain this status requires that general housekeeping, presentation and maintenance be delivered with excellence.

These duties are performed by a group of dedicated parishioners known as the Altar Guild. They create a beautiful environment for the greater glory of God, by offering “behind the scenes” assistance to ensure that the sacramental liturgical items for worship are kept in good condition.

Tasks include preparing the Cathedral’s five altars (plus St. James-the-Less’), sacred vessels and other sanctuary items for services, tending to the linens, dusting, polishing of brass and silver, plus a host of other duties, as directed by the Vicar.
Not only do Guild members provide general housekeeping, but they make sure that the Sanctuary is dusted and cleaned thoroughly every week. Also, they prepare, clean, and store all the sacred vessels as well as wash, iron and set-up the linens, both at the Cathedral and St. James-the-Less.

In addition, they ensure that the procession crosses, silver chalices and trays, brass collection plates, candle snuffers, pew plaques and the chancel altar rail are all clean and shiny for Sunday services.
To accommodate their many tasks, and their varied lifestyles, members work in assigned teams of three to four on a rotational basis. Sharing their duties makes this a rewarding ministry that contributes to the cathedral family.
Each year, on the Friday preceding Palm Sunday, Guild members, along with volunteers from the Parish, make 1000 palm crosses for Palm Sunday services.

Would you like to be part of this rewarding ministry?
The Altar Guild functions under the guidance and direction of Vicar Louise Peters. New members receive training and guidance from their team leader and members, and are provided with available manuals, illustrations and check lists to ensure the correct steps are completed. If you are interested in joining the Altar Guild, please contact Vicar Louise (vicar@stjamescathedral.ca).