Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers helping at Simpson Housing in Minneapolis

In August of each year we celebrate Shared Ministry Weekend. During this time we showcase a variety of ministries and ask members to look at all the new and old opportunities in the Shared Ministry Brochure. Click here for the 2008-2009 Shared Ministry Brochure.

Below you will find each ministry opportunity explained briefly where you can read of some of the ways members get involved here or in the community. You can browse the whole list or go to one of the main ministry areas that may be of interest.

Once you find an opportunity of interest, the next step is to return the sign-up form with your personal information or call the parish office at 952-473-6601 so that the Director of Shared Ministry can contact you to help you get started or help find something that is right for you. You can also click this link to e-mail Marion Clark.

More information can also be found under the Ministry section of this web site.

Main Ministry Areas:

Administration and Developement
Adult Faith Formation
Children's Faith Formation
Community-Building
Liturgy
Music
Pastoral Ministry
Justice and Service
Youth Ministry

Administration and Development

 

Collection Counter

Help count weekend collections. Counting takes place at the bank. Commitment is once a week on Monday mornings.  

Stewardship of Treasure Committee

The Stewardship Committee works with the Development Director to implement an annual fall Stewardship of Treasure Campaign in which all parishioners are encouraged to pledge, as a faith response to God in a way that is intentional, planned and proportionate for the upcoming calendar year. Commitment is 4-6 times per year.  

Don Adams, Sr. Scholarship Golf Tournament

The tournament takes place in September. Monies raised from the golf tournament directly serve families in need that otherwise could not afford a Catholic education for their child or children. Support comes from alumni, parents, grandparents, parishioners, friends and business vendors. Time commitment varies according to your job choice.  

Alumni Committee

The Alumni Committee works to reconnect with former St. Bart's students and acts as a resource to increase alumni registration on the parish website. If you would like to be a class representative--this committee is for YOU! Time commitment is flexible.  

Images of Spring Fundraiser Committee

The vision or purpose of the Images of Spring fundraiser is to reunite friends who share a common vision and to raise critical funds for the continued growth and success of our parish and school. The silent/live auction and dinner take place each year in April. Time commitment varies according to your job choice.  

Grant Writing Committee

Successful grant writing involves the coordination of several activities, including planning, searching for data and resources, writing and packaging a proposal, submitting a proposal to a funder and follow-up.

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Adult Faith Formation

 

RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) Sponsor

Journey with a candidate through their preparation to become a member of the Catholic faith. RCIA sessions take place on Sundays, 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m., October through May. Sponsors need to be active Catholics.  

Marriage Preparation Ministry

As a married couple, help an engaged couple prepare for their sacrament of marriage and lead them through the "PREPARE" inventory. Training is provided. Commitment entails working with 2-3 couples per year. Each couple will require 3-6 meetings each.

Vocations Committee

Help nurture, affirm and call forth those in our community who may have a vocation to the priesthood or religious life.

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Children's Faith Formation

Faith Formation Teacher

Teacher positions are available for first grade through fifth grade. Sessions are 4:30 p.m.-5:45 p.m. or 6:15-7:30 p.m. Teachers are provided with training, lesson plans, teacher guides and lesson supplements. Commitment is once a week, September through April. Position open to adults and youth 16 years or older.

Faith Formation Commission

This commission develops program policies and goals, evaluates and assesses existing programs, and assists and supports the director or faith formation. Commitment is once a month on Tuesday evening.  

Sunday Preschool Teacher

Teach four, five or six year-olds during the 8:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Mass, September through April. Weekly lesson plans and training provided. Position open to adults and youth 16 years and older.

Liturgy of the Word for Children

Every Sunday at the 8:30 or 10:30 a.m. Mass, first through fifth grade children leave during the homily to hear the Gospel proclaimed. Help lead music (piano, guitar or voice) or assist leader with children. Commitment is once a month.

Christmas Program

Provide piano music or help direct the Sunday preschool Christmas program. Commitment is 2-3 practices on Sunday morning during the 8:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m. Mass.

St. Bartholomew School

St. Bartholomew School has numerous opportunities for volunteers. Time commitment varies with many options of activities. Give an hour, stay the day or whatever works for you - we are flexible. Have an expertise to share? We are interested. Volunteers need not have children in the school.

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Community-Building

Newcomers Welcome Team

Share your enthusiasm for St. Bartholomew while serving as a host of the Newcomers Welcome. Responsibilities include assisting with program, setting up, welcoming and connecting with guests and giving church tours. Commitment is 2-3 evenings per year.

Shared Ministry Committee

Help plan and implement strategies for encouraging, maintaining and celebrating ministries at St. Bartholomew. Some of the events coordinated by the committee: Ministry Fair, Time and Talent, Volunteer Appreciation. Commitment is 5-6 meetings per year.

Information Desk

Distribute parish information, answer questions and register new members. Desk is staffed 15 minutes before and after Mass. Commitment is once every 6-8 weeks at the Saturday 5:00 p.m. Mass or at the 8:30 or 10:30 a.m. Sunday Mass.  

Web Site Technician

Update and create new pages within the church and school web site as requested. Commitment is flexible.  

Communications Committee

Help organize the parish newsletter. This committee helps decide the who, what, where, when, and why of our Reflections newsletter.  

News Team

Do you like to write or proofread? Do you have skills in graphic design or videotaping? Do you enjoy critiquing the movies you see and/or the books you read? If you said "yes" to any of the above, then this ministry might be perfect for you. Time commitment varies; one time, occasional or monthly contributions are welcomed.  

Photographer

Like to take pictures? Are you good at capturing an event on film? If yes, consider taking photos at parish functions and special liturgies. Commitment is varied and flexible.

Phone Callers

Occasionally, St. Bartholomew makes phone calls to parishioners to extend an invitation or provide information. This ministry can be done from home and according to your time schedule.

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Liturgy

 

Liturgy Commission

Assist in planning and assessing the liturgical life of the parish. Meets once a month on Tuesday at 6:45 p.m.  

Eucharistic Minister

Distribute the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass. Each minister is scheduled for one month, each calendar quarter. Training is provided; all you need is is an appreciation of the beauty and dignity of Eucharist. Open to members 16 years and older who have received the sacrament of Confirmation.  

Environment Setup/Take Down

Each liturgical season the church decor is changed. Help setup and/or take down each season. Commitment is on a per event basis. A great family ministry.  

Lector

Clear speaking voice required for the reading of the word of God during the weekend liturgies. Commitment is 10-12 times per year. Training provided. Open to adults and youth (7th grade or older).  

Altar Server

Assist Fr. Michael during Mass. A great way to be involved and learn more about the Mass. Open to adults and children (4th grade or older). Training provided. One year commitment.  

Ministry of Hospitality (Usher or Greeter)

This ministry is committed to providing a friendly and welcoming environment. Responsibilities include greeting, distributing worship aids and bulletins, and helping parishioners find seating. Designated volunteers will assist with the Sunday collection. Commitment is for one month, four times per year. This is a wonderful ministry for all ages. Families welcome.  

Coffee and Donuts

Make coffee and arrange donuts or cookies on trays, serve the refreshments and clean-up. Commitment is one weekend Mass every two months. A great family ministry!  

Nursery

Assist with the care of our young children during Sunday Mass. Commitment is once every 2-3 months. Open to volunteers age 16 years through adult.  

Liturgical Environment Committee

Be a member of the group that plans, organizes and implements church decor for each liturgical season: Advent, Christmas, Ordinary Time, Lent, Triduum and Easter. Commitment is 5-10 hours per season. Training provided.  

Video Camera Operator

Operate the video camera during major liturgical celebrations, e.g. Christmas, Easter, etc. The video camera is used to project the service into the over-flow room. Commitment is one or more events depending on your schedule.

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Music

Cantor

Lead assembly in singing at the weekend liturgies. Need not be a member of the choir. Rehearsals are flexible.

Choir Member

Lead assembly in singing at 8:30 and/or 10:30 a.m. Sunday Masses. Commitment is September through May; also sing for major feast days. Open to 9th grade students through adults. Rehearsal is 1-2 hours on Wednesday evenings.

Instrumentalist

Assist assembly in singing; includes special roles during some liturgical seasons and feast days. Open to 9th grade students through adults. Rehearsals as necessary. Commitment is flexible.

Children's Choir

Rehearsals on Tuesdays from 3:45 p.m.-4:45 p.m. Sing twice a month during one weekend Mass. Open to grades 3-6.

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Pastoral Ministry

 

Song Ministry at Hillcrest Nursing Home

Help others sing praise at the Wednesday prayer services at Hillcrest. Also looking for guitar or piano players. Commitment is flexible on Wednesdays, from 10:40 a.m.-11:25 a.m. this is a joy-filled ministry!  

Assist Hillcrest Residents to Prayer

Escort residents from their rooms to the chapel area so they can participate in morning prayer. Commitment is one Wednesday per month, 10:25-11:25 a.m. Residents are delighted when you are able to come help (and the delight goes both ways).  

Prayer Network

Join parishioners who are committed to pray for the needs of others. As a member you would receive a prayer request, pray and pass it on to the next prayer network member.  

Funeral Sacristan

Assist at the Mass of Christian Burial by helping prepare the bread, wine, incense and other items needed for the funeral Mass. Training is provided. Commitment is 2 hours, 6-8 times per year during the weekday.  

Funeral Altar Server

Be a part of our community's care and support to a grieving family by assisting the presider at the funeral Mass. Training is provided. Both adults and children over 12 years are welcome to serve. Commitment is 4 times per year. Need to be available during the weekday.  

Funeral Lunch Server

Help set up, serve and clean up the lunch following the funeral Mass. Commitment is 4-5 hours, 6 times per year. Need to be available during the weekday.  

Transportation Ministry

Provide rides for elders in our community who need transportation to the doctor and other appointments. This is coordinated through Interfaith Outreach. Time commitment is based on your availability.

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Justice and Service

Justice and Service Commission

Increase the parish's awareness and involvement in justice issues through social action, service and education. Commitment is one Tuesday evening per month as well as various events and projects.

Social Justice Affiliate

This is an opportunity to be involved in social justice events without serving on a committee. Those interested will be called as opportunities arise to coordinate or just work at a social justice event. Commitment is flexible.

Adopt-An-Orphanage

This event provides parishioners with an opportunity to honor loved ones by selecting a day of the year in which their contribution feeds the children of "Love A Child" orphanage in Haiti. Volunteers are needed to either organize or work at this one-time event. It takes place during St. Bart's "The Work of Human Hands Bazaar."

English As a Second Language

Teach English as a second language at our sister parish, Holy Rosary Church in South Minneapolis. Days or evening classes available. Training provided.

Feed My Starving Children

Help package a low-cost meal for malnourished children around the world. Parishioners five years and older can participate. Commitment is 9:00-11:30 a.m. on a Saturday. A great way to involve children in service.

Families Moving Forward

This organization helps homeless families stay together while they seek permanent housing. Churches around the Twin Cities take turns hosting 3-4 families for a week at their building. In Wayzata, St. Bartholomew partners with Wayzata Community Church to provide shelter during various weeks of the year. Volunteers can serve as a shelter host, plan and serve a meal, work with the children or serve as an overnight host. Commitment is one Friday night from 5:00 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Overnight hosts or breakfast cooks are also needed. Dates are September 21, 2007, December 28, 2007, July 18, 2008 and October 10, 2008. Families welcome to serve.

Work of Human Hands Christmas Bazaar

Put your faith into action and make a difference in peoples' lives. The Bazaar provides a fun way to support the Fair Trade movement and Catholic Relief Services. We sell beautiful handcrafted goods and food items purchased from artisans and farmers around the world. Volunteer opportunities include publicity, purchasing, inventory, hospitality, pre-sale set and display, cashiering and take-down. The Bazaar takes place in November.

Adopt-A-Family

Interfaith Outreach and Community Partners matches a needy family with a family or individual who is willing to provide gifts and a meal at Christmas. You will be contacted about this project in October.

A Community Caring for Life (ACCL)

ACCL calls attention to life issues around abortion, capital punishment, euthanasia, etc. Work with the Archdiocesan office to keep informed on these issues and provide opportunities for parish participation.

Sowers of Justice

Sowers is a newsletter published by the Diocesan Office of Social Justice. Its purpose is to provide information and tools to help members act on behalf of justice. By subscribing to this free newsletter you receive a bi-monthly "SEEDS" newsletter filled with inspiration, justice facts, background on issues, education on Catholic social teaching and opportunities ot shape public policy.

 

School's Cool

Provides school uniforms, fees and supplies for children attending Risen Christ School (our sister parish's school). Volunteers are needed to shop for students supplies, solicit donors or write thank you notes. Commitment varies according to task and takes place sometime between May and September.  

Simpson Housing Meal Server

Be a part of the St. Bartholomew team that either prepares and serves dinner to 70 guests at the overnight men's emergency shelter in Minneapolis, or 20 guests at the women's shelter. Also needed are volunteers to shop and plan the menu. Commitment is one evening from 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Open to anyone 12 years through adult.  

Holy Rosary Coat Drive

Assist with the coat drive in October. Help is needed in the areas of publicity and/or delivery of coats to Holy Rosary. The coat drive will happen in late October 2008.

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Youth Ministry

Faith Formation Catechist

Facilitate a small group of 6-12 grade students.Training is provided. Commitment is Wednesday or Sunday evenings, September through April.

Faith Formation Program Assistant

Check attendance forms, monitor halls and call for Substitutes, as needed. Commitment is twice a month on Wednesday or Monday evenings.

Youth Ministry Commission

Help develop goals and policies, evaluate existing programs and assist the Youth Ministry Coordinator. Commitment is once a month on Tuesday evenings.

Youth Ministry Hospitality

Serve and/or provide refreshmens and light meals for Youth Ministry programs. Commitment is flexible. A great way to support and encourage our youth without requiring a regular time commitment.

Musician for Youth Ministry

Provide music for youth events or prayer services. Singing, piano or guitar. Flexible commitment.

Mission Trip Team

Adults needed to help lead our summer youth mission trip. Destination to be announced.

Activity Chaperone

Chaperone a youth social, service or other type of adventure. Commitment is dependent on your availability.

Retreat Planning Team

This team will meet regularly to plan, advertise and conduct retreats for all 6-12 graders of St. Bartholomew.

Summer Stretch Team

Summer Stretch provides middle school students with an opportunity to be involved in community service once a week from June through the first week of August. Help plan and promote this program, act as a small group leader or help drive students to service site.

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