Liturgical Ministries&lt;div&gt;important: All volunteers are required to complete online &lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;safe environment training before volunteering. see link to train:&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;https://sjbalameda.org/safe-environment&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;

During the liturgical year, the Church unfolds the whole mystery of Christ, from his Incarnation and Birth through his Passion, Death, Resurrection and Ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The tradition of decorating or not decorating the church for liturgical seasons and feasts heightens the awareness of the festive, solemn, or penitential nature of these seasons. Human minds and hearts are stimulated by the sounds, sights and fragrances of liturgical seasons, which combine to create powerful, lasting impressions of the rich and abundant graces unique to each.
We are seeking ministers who have an artistic eye, a spiritual soul and a practical work ethic to bring their talents and creative instincts to our Art and Environment Team. We welcome all hearts and hands ready and eager to prepare our Basilica for worship. For more information, please contact Eric Bertelsen at email: [email protected]

Altar servers and acolytes (adult servers) assist the priest during Mass and at other liturgical ceremonies - you have probably seen them vested in white albs at Mass. They are expected to be appropriately prepared, committed to giving their time and talent to the parish community, and willing to serve God's people. They should be able to understand the Eucharistic celebration and the other sacred rites, and have already received First Eucharist. The minimum age is 3rd grade. Training is provided.
Responsibilities include:
- Carrying the processional candles
- Holding the book for the priest celebrant
- Assisting the priest in setting the altar with the needed vessels
- Assisting the priest and deacon as necessary
To apply or ask a question about the ministry click here.

Sacristans work in the sacristy to set up for Mass, which includes setting out the sacred vessels, organizing the liturgical books, and seeing the proper amount of bread and wine. After the Mass, they make sure the sacristy is cleaned up and in good order. In addition to the sacristan duties, our sacristans are also acolytes assisting at Mass by processing in with the processional cross and, in the absence of altar servers, cover their duties as well.

For more information or on how to volunteer contact:
Alma Olaguer: [email protected]
or
Nardo Magno: [email protected]

Lectors clearly proclaim the readings at Sunday and weekday Masses. Lectoring is an art with historical foundations dating back to the time when the Christian community gathered to hear the Word of God because many in the community were not able to read themselves. We must proclaim the Word of God aloud to help God's message take a journey in our own lives.

As a lector, you will need to attend a one-hour training session. Scheduling is based on your availability each month. You will also be asked to renew your commitment to this ministry annually.

The Ministry contact is Melva Ramos: [email protected]

St. Joseph Basilica