Ministry Descriptions
Updated August 14, 2011
Click on a letter in the table below to go directly to the ministry that begins with that letter
— A —
Adoration Chapel
Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament is available 24 hours a day. Spend some time in the presence of the Lord by reading the Bible, praying the Rosary, or just sitting and enjoying the sweet peace that comes from being in the Presence of God. Sign up for a weekly one-hour time slot or stop in any time for prayer and reflection. The Adoration chapel is located next to the Parish Office. Contact Information.
Adult Faith Formation
The mission of Adult Faith Formation is to deepen our awareness and relationship with God through ongoing educational programs focusing on conversion, community, and service to others. Programs offered in Catholicism, scripture, liturgical celebrations, sacraments, the Church, and current issues are offered throughout the year on some Wednesday evenings and on Sunday mornings after the 9 a.m. Mass. Volunteers are needed for program planning and implementation. Contact Information.
Altar Guild
The primary purpose of the Altar Guild is reverence for the Holy Eucharist and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This purpose is achieved through the regular care and adornment of the altar, maintaining all linens, vessels, and other appointments necessary for sacred liturgy. This includes arranging to have flowers on the altar and decorating for special liturgies. The secondary purpose is to foster the spiritual and social welfare of the women of the Parish. Membership is open to all women of the parish. Meetings are held in the Fallon Center on the second Thursday of the month at noon. Contact Information.
Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist the priest at the altar during our parish liturgies, funerals, and other liturgical celebrations. Boys and girls in 5th grade and up can participate. Servers should arrive at least 10 minutes before Mass, sign in, and participate in prayer with the other ministers of that day's liturgy. Contact Information.
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— B —
Bereavement Committee
Members provide heartfelt hospitality to families after the passing of a loved one. A meal is served with love in the Fallon Center following a funeral Mass. Adults and youth are invited to participate in this ministry. Contact Information.
Bible Study
Studies are scheduled throughout the year covering Sacred Scripture to specific books of the Bible. The studies encourage the use of Scripture as a foundation for prayer and spiritual growth and involve individual daily reading and reflection on the subject and weekly group sessions for discussion and lecture. Scheduled sessions on Monday nights and Thursday afternoons are posted in the parish bulletin and are open to all parish members and their friends, as well as any others who wish to join us. There is also a Mother's Bible Study and a Young Adult Bible Study (see Young Adult Youth Ministry). Contact Information.
Birthchoice Clinic
Birthchoice Clinic provides life-affirming, positive alternatives to abortion. The clinic is a pro-life organization that follows Catholic teachings on abortion, conception, and abstinence. Volunteers are needed to answer phones from home and from the clinic, meet clients face-to-face, offer compassion and information about alternatives to abortion, operate the ultrasound machine, and collect baby and maternity clothes, cribs, and car seats. Contact Information.
Boy Scouts of America
This is a ministry that prepares youth for the varied responsibilities of life; participation, giving of service and leadership. Scouts are expected to give to the church, American society and other forums of the world. The programs include life lessons, career lessons, leadership, obtaining goals, service projects, camping, high adventure and religious training. The programs typically meet once a week. The Boy Scout program has weekend activities every six weeks and the Venturing program has weekend activities every four months.
Our Lady of Lourdes has chartered three programs from Boy Scouts of America. These programs include Cub Scouts (for boys from the age of six to ten-and-a-half years old), Boy Scouts (for boys from the age of ten-and-a-half to eighteen years old), and Venturing (for boys and girls from the age of fourteen to twenty-one years old). The purpose of the partnership between Our Lady of Lourdes and Boy Scouts of America is to provide an effective program designed to instill within youth desirable qualities of character, to train them in the responsibilities of participating in citizenship, and to help develop their personal fitness, providing this country with citizens who:
- Are physically, mentally, emotionally and morally fit,
- Have a high degree of self-reliance as evidenced in such qualities as initiative, courage and resourcefulness,
- Have personal and stable values firmly based on religious concepts,
- Have the desire and skills to help others, and
- Have a keen respect for the basic rights of all people.
Contact Information.
Bread of Life Prayer Group
The Bread of Life Charismatic Prayer Group meets once a week for 1½ hours on Wednesday evenings on the upper level of the church. We come together to give thanks to the Lord, to call on His name, to make known what He has done, to sing praises to Him, and to tell of the wonderful things He is doing among us. We begin with songs of praise, read the Word of the day, have a Communion service, and intercessory prayer time. Since we intercede for the needs of the parish, if you can’t attend, please place your prayer needs in the prayer intention box near the upper-level entrance door. Come join us. All are welcome. Contact Information.
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— C —
Catholic Golden Age
We have been in existence for 25 years. It encompasses adult Catholics, age 55 plus from eight or more parishes in our community. We meet on the first Sunday of the months of September through May, at 1:30 p.m. at the Fallon Center. We also get together for dinner every third Thursday of each month all year at 5:30 p.m. at local restaurants. Our Sunday meetings usually run 2 hours including a business meeting, entertainment and refreshments, provided by the various parish members. Trips are scheduled with the cooperation of Raleigh Parks and Recreation. They include day trips, weekends, and extended trips throughout the year.
Contact Information.
Catholic Parish Outreach
Catholic Parish Outreach is a joint effort of local parishes to provide food, clothing, and essential supplies to the needy in our area. On Share Sunday, which is the third Sunday of the month, parishioners may bring donations of non-perishable food, baby and maternity clothes, and baby equipment and supplies and leave them in the container on the upper level of the church. Volunteers are scheduled Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. to sort and package items. Monetary contributions are taken up during the offertory collection at all Masses on Share Sunday. Contact Information.
Center for Volunteer Caregiving
Center for Volunteer Caregiving is a private, nonprofit, faith-based organization that provides volunteer services to help Wake County seniors, family caregivers, and adults with disabilities maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life. Volunteers provide transportation, light housework, visits, and respite care. Training is scheduled monthly at different locations. Check the bulletin for dates and locations. Contact Information.
Children of God
Children of God provides shelter, food, clothing, and a Christian-based education for 200 young girls from indigenous mountain communities near Chichicastenango, Guatemala. Individuals are invited to sponsor a young girl for $35.00 a month ($420.00 per year). The parish is kept up-to-date with news from the Internado de Niñas several times a year, and the parish family is invited to travel to Guatemala in groups to visit the girls. In the past, individual sponsors have also supported efforts to replace leaking roofs, replace an unsanitary and dangerous kitchen, replace unsanitary bathroom facilities, purchase textbooks, create a library, and take care of other needs as they arise. The parish sent its first medical team in 2007 to perform dental checks and eye exams. Contact Information.
Children’s Catechumenate
Children over the age of seven who have not received the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, or First Communion are eligible to participate in the Children’s Catechumenate. Catechists are needed to instruct children in our faith and prepare them to receive the sacraments. Contact Information.
Children’s Faith Formation
Children’s Faith Formation classes are open to children ages 3 years through Grade 5. Our program focuses on the teachings of the Catholic faith and our traditions. We strive to develop in each child a greater love of our Savior and Teacher, Jesus Christ, and an understanding of our baptismal call to discipleship. Volunteers are needed as catechists (teachers and/or co-teachers), substitute catechists, volunteers to assist with special projects and activities, and clerical assistance. Catechist training is provided. Contact Information.
Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW)
Children ages 3-7 are called forward at the beginning of the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass and proceed to the Fallon Center Hall for their own special, age-appropriate liturgy. The structure of the Mass is explained and the Gospel is discussed to enrich each child’s faith. It is led by parent volunteers who plan and present the weekly teachings. Contact Information.
Collection Counters
Counters meet in teams of four once a month on Monday mornings from 8:30-10:30 a.m. to count and record the offertory and other special collections received the previous weekend. Contact Information.
Columbarium
The columbarium provides a prayerful, private, and beautiful site on the parish grounds as a permanent place of rest and remembrance for our departed loved ones. The columbarium ministry provides perpetual care of the grounds of the columbarium and its surrounding memorial gardens. It also administers the purchase of columbarium niches and memorial engravings, and it aids the pastor during funeral services at the columbarium. The ministry’s mission is to provide service, compassion, and prayer for our fellow parishioners during their time of grief. Contact Information.
Cookies for the Troops
Help supply homemade cookies for our troops who are traveling through the airport USO; give them a taste of home. Cookies are collected every Monday and Tuesday in the parish office and promptly delivered to the USO.
Contact Information.
Couples for Christ Marriage Ministry
Couples for Christ is a Catholic family life renewal program being made available to parishes within the Diocese of Raleigh for married couples who wish to live out their Christian life in an active and supportive relationship with one another.
Those who want to become members of Couples for Christ go through a 13-week seminar which is called a Christian Life Program (CLP). The CLP is an integrated course leading into a renewed understanding of God’s call to Christian couples. The talks are usually held in the afternoons or evenings and usually last about 2-1/2 hours per session.
After the CLP, those who finish are invited to become part of a small cell group called a Household. The household is composed of about 4 up to 6 couples who meet weekly for encouragement and mutual support in the Christian life. The household meeting is held at the homes of the group members weekly on a rotation basis. A typical meeting would involve some time for prayer, a time for sharing or discussion and finally some time for fellowship.
Couples for Christ (CFC) is a servant and lay arm of the Roman Catholic Church in the work of family renewal and evangelization. The Vatican (Pontifical Council of the Laity) has granted CFC a decree of recognition as a PRIVATE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF THE LAY FAITHFUL in accordance with Canons 321-329 of the Code of Canon Law. CFC operates under the auspices of the Diocese of Raleigh Department for Catholic Formation and Evangelization, Office for Marriage and Family Life. Contact Information.
Cursillo in Christianity
Cursillo (kur-see-yo) is a Spanish word literally meaning “short course”—a short course in Christianity. It begins on Thursday evening and ends the following Sunday. During these three days, those attending the Cursillo live and learn together listening to talks given by clergy, other religious, and laity. They also share the Eucharist and pray together. Each talk is followed by a discussion period.
A Cursillo is an encounter with Christ through community. Can Christianity penetrate the many areas of secular life in today’s world? Can it live there? Can it grow there? Can it transform the world in a way that is more fruitful than the past, and in keeping with the times? The Cursillo Movement thinks so. It proposes no new type of spirituality, but simply a method through which one’s spirituality may be developed, lived, and shared in any area of human life where there are Christians willing to dedicate their lives to God in an ongoing manner.
Cursillo is a movement of the Catholic Church that has spread from small beginnings in Spain in 1944 to a worldwide expression of the role of the laity in union with the church. It has been a part of the Diocese of Raleigh for over forty years. The best place to find current information about the Raleigh Movement is to go to www.cursillo.org/Raleigh. Contact Information.
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— D —
— E —
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion assist the priest in administering the Body and Blood of Christ at weekend liturgies, on Holy Days, and during special liturgies. See descriptions for the Hospital Ministry and for the Nursing Home/Assisted Living/Shut-in Ministry to learn about other opportunities for Eucharistic ministers to serve. Training sessions can be set up by calling Sr. Mary Agnes, IHM, at 919.861.4613. Contact Information.
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— F —
Fair Trade Ministry
Fair Trade is based on the principle that people should earn a fair profit for the items they produce. Fair Trade guarantees fair wages to disadvantaged artisans, farmers and workers. It connects these producers with people like us who understand that the choices we make every day as consumers have the power to make the trading system work better for our brothers and sisters overseas. CRS works in partnership with more than one dozen Fair Trade organizations to bring Fair Trade handcrafts, coffee and chocolate to thousands of communities across the United States. When you buy Fair Trade Coffee you are demonstrating your commitment to live out Gospel values, you are bringing to bear in the marketplace the values of your faith! You are making consumer choices that help lift our brothers and sisters around the world out of poverty!
If you would like to help sell this coffee after the 9 a.m. Mass on Sunday, please contact the coordinator. Contact Information.
Farm Workers Dinners
Farm Season Needs
Volunteers serve migrant workers and their families two Sundays a year (May and September) at St. Bernadette's in Fuquay-Varina. We need:
- People to donate, prepare, and serve dinner to 75-200 people (Volunteer families can serve dinner together.)
- Medical professionals to offer free medical services at a mini-clinic after Mass
- Donations of hygiene products, toys, and other supplies
Donated items are collected at OLL School in the spring. Volunteers who speak Spanish are needed to assist in distributing items and answering questions. Contact Information.
Farm Workers Ministry
Year-Round Needs
The following items are collected year-round in the containers on the upper level of the church:
- Men’s long-sleeved shirts to protect against tobacco sickness in spring planting and fall harvesting (goal: 600 shirts)
- Men’s baseball caps
Watch the bulletin for special needs. Contact Information.
Finance Council
The Parish Finance Council is appointed to assist the pastor in the development and stewardship of the parish’s financial resources so that the parish may effectively pursue its mission of spreading Christ’s Gospel and love. Contact Information.
Fitness Ministry
Tim Kelly is a trainer with over 20 years experience in helping people of all ages and abilities achieve their fitness goals. Living a healthy life starts with caring for your body and exercise as keys to maintaining that health. Tim is volunteering his time every month to answer questions and do fitness evaluations for members of our church that are interested. He is teamed up with local medical professionals who are willing to help with this ministry as well. Contact Information.
Flower Shuttle
The concept of the Flower Shuttle is similar to the Food Shuttle, except it involves receiving flowers following community events, weddings, funerals, or from stores and wholesalers that have overbought. Volunteers rearrange them into smaller vases for delivery to brighten the lives of people living with sickness, disability, terminal illness, and poverty. The beauty of this program is that it uses flowers that would otherwise have been thrown away.
Volunteers meet every Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. at the Raleigh Moravian Church, 1816 Ridge Road, to rearrange donated flowers and deliver them to those in need. Many volunteers are needed to pick up flowers, rearrange them, or deliver bouquets. Donations of small vases are always needed as well. On the first Tuesday of each month, a free flower demonstration is held around 11:30 a.m. when the arrangements are finished. Typically 300-400 arrangements are made in two hours. Contact Information.
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— G —
Girl Scouts
GS Troop 1069 is a combination of Daisy, Brownie and Junior troops for ages 5 through 12 (Grades K through 6). We meet with our separate troops at Our Lady of Lourdes Fallon Center on Monday evenings about twice a month and participate in other service, outdoor and international activities throughout the year. Following a traditional school year calendar, we welcome and register new girls in August. We are always looking for new leaders ready to join our team to help girls experience challenges and develop leadership skills. Contact Information.
Greeters
Greeters serve as the initial welcome to parishioners and visitors at all weekend liturgies and other special liturgical celebrations, as well as assist with the distribution of worship aids. Contact Information.
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— H —
Habitat For Humanity
Habitat For Humanity is a ministry whose mission is to build homes in partnership with the working poor. Simple decent housing is basic to human dignity. Currently, Our Lady of Lourdes is one of 8 parishes building a home as part of the Catholic Coalition. Contact Information.
Healing Place
The Healing Place provides innovative long-term residential substance abuse recovery and rehabilitative programs for the homeless, needy, alcoholic, or chemically dependent of Wake County within a homeless shelter framework. Volunteers are needed to: prepare and serve meals; perform clerical work; assist in finding affordable housing; donate clean, wearable men’s and women’s clothing, underwear, socks and shoes. Financial donations are also welcome. Contact Information.
Hispanic Prayer Group
Members of the prayer group pray spontaneously, praising and glorifying the Lord. The Prayer Group enables us to get closer to the Lord, and to help others by praying for them. At the Prayer Group we also listen to the Word of God and meditate on Scripture. This helps us to better our lives, especially while in the midst of so many difficulties. We meet in the upper chapel on Sundays, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. Contact Information.
El grupo de oración es donde se reúne un grupo de personas para hacer oración espontáneamente, alabando y glorificando al Señor. Es una comunicación con el Señor pidiendo por las necesidades de nuestra comunidad, y las de nosotros mismos. Es un medio de acércanos más al Señor para prepararnos y poder ayudar a los demás. También escuchamos la palabra del Señor y reflexionamos sobre la escritura. Nos ayuda a mejorar nuestra vida especialmente en medio de tantas dificultades. Contact Information.
Homeschoolers
Interested in homeschooling your children? We will be glad to assist you in gathering information about homeschooling in the Raleigh area and connecting you with other area homeschoolers. ARCH is the Association of Roman Catholic Homeschoolers and has a hundred registered Catholic families. They provide and support many activities for the participants. Contact Information.
Hospital Ministry
Hospital Ministry consists of Eucharistic ministers who visit and bring the Eucharist to Catholic patients in Rex Hospital on two Saturdays and every Sunday and Monday of each month. Contact Information.
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— I —
— J —
— K —
Knights of Columbus
The Knights of Columbus Catholic fraternal organization consists of men who serve their faith, parish, and pastor, as well as sponsor activities such as the Pancake Breakfast, Welcome Coffee, Fish Fry, Youth Free Throw Competition, Run for Life, Right to Life events, and Operation Lamb (collecting donations for mentally challenged children). Group members also lend their time to fulfill manpower needs at a multitude of parish events. All men of the parish 18 years and older are invited to join. Monthly meetings are held in the Fallon Center on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Contact Information.
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— L —
Lectors
Lectors proclaim the Scripture readings at the Mass.
The Lectors Creed: The Lord God has given me a well-trained tongue that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them.
“The cycle of readings used in liturgy directs us on a journey of faith. Lectors are our storytellers on this journey, proclaiming the Scripture in a way that reminds us God's word is alive here and now.”
—from Loyola University Web page
The ministry of Lectors brings the word of God alive to the assembly. By proclaiming the word “to the weary,” the lector reminds the assembly of God’s love and “rouses” them to do his will.
The time commitment for this ministry includes a brief training session as well as preparation time at home before reading. Lector Workbooks are provided to help you with your preparation. Time for this preparation varies according to a person’s experience, but even highly experienced lectors should spend no less than an hour in prayerful preparation for this important ministry. Lectors should also arrive 15 minutes before the celebration of Mass to check the lectionary and to participate in prayer with other ministers of the day’s service. Contact Information.
Legion of Mary
The Legion of Mary is a worldwide organization in which Catholic men and women sanctify themselves through prayer and spiritual work in union with Our Lady and under the guidance of a priest.
Types of work undertaken: visiting shut-ins, hospitals, and nursing homes; visiting families in the parish to foster Catholic devotions; door-to-door evangelization; RCIA sponsorship; religious instruction; and visiting prisoners.
Time Commitment: Active members attend a weekly meeting and perform a weekly work obligation of two hours. Each day auxiliary members pray the Rosary along with Legion prayers. Contact Information.
Living with Loss
Living with Loss ministers through monthly gathering that bring together those who suffer the loss of a loved one. As companions on this life-journey, we offer one another comfort as we mourn our loss. We celebrate life and find strength in the support and prayers of others. All are welcome on the 4th Sunday of each month, 10:15 - 11:15 a.m. in the Fallon Center Lounge. Contact Information.
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— M —
Marriage Preparation
The Marriage Preparation ministry is devoted to assisting engaged couples preparing for marriage. We invite all couples in a valid Catholic marriage who treasure their marriage as a gift from God and would like to share that gift with couples preparing for married life to participate. Volunteers are welcome to assist with hospitality or registration, or to give a sharing talk on a topic related to marriage (e.g., communication, finances, sacramental marriage, natural family planning). Two to four Saturday workshops (running from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) are scheduled for our parish by the Diocese a year in advance. Contact Information.
Martha Ministry
The Martha Ministry provides meals (vegetable and entree) and transportation to members in the parish who have a critical need (e.g., someone returning from the hospital or someone who needs to get to a doctor’s appointment). If you enjoy cooking or have the time to offer transportation, please consider this ministry. With enough volunteers you may be called on only once or twice a year. Contact Information.
Mass Transit
Mass Transit is a transportation ministry dedicated to serving those in need of a ride to and from church services at OLL for the Saturday evening and Sunday Masses. Drivers are needed. You can volunteer as often as you would like, but we are hoping for a commitment of at least once per quarter, though once per month is preferable and more rewarding. No matter what level of involvement you care to offer, we can use your help. We will match you with a rider. You must have a valid drivers license and proof of current auto insurance. The coordinator will match drivers and riders and supply everyone with a quarterly schedule. Contact Information.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels delivers hot, nutritious noon-time meals to the elderly, sick, disabled, homebound, and those unable to prepare meals for themselves. Volunteer teams of two deliver meals 6-8 times per year. Contact Information.
Michael James House
This house, given in trust to the parish, provides limited transitional housing to low- and middle-income families. Volunteers assist in painting and refurbishing the house and grounds between tenants and help with general upkeep during tenancy. They also mentor the family towards the goal of attaining financial self-sufficiency. Contact Information.
Miraculous Medal Novena
We pray the Miraculous Medal Novena, Rosary and the Chaplet of St. Michael each Monday at 7:15 in the upper chapel. Contact Information.
Mothers of Young Children (MYC)
Mothers of Young Children (MYC) seeks to provide friendship, support, and spiritual guidance to its members as they undertake the rewarding and often strenuous task of raising a young family. Mothers with infant or preschool-aged children, as well as expectant mothers, are welcome to join us each month for food, fellowship, and topical discussions related to mothering. MYC meets from 9:30-11:00 a.m. on the 4th Tuesday of every month in the Fallon Center Lounge. Childcare is provided in the Fallon Center nursery. For further information and inspiration, please visit our website at http://ollmyc.blogspot.com. Anyone interested in joining MYC should contact the coordinator.
Music Ministry: Lourdes Singers, Choir
Music ministry is a vitally important component of the liturgy. Although our community is blessed with a talented, experienced, and dedicated choir, we are always looking for and welcome new members for the following:
- 9 a.m. Choir: Rehearse on Thursday nights from 7:30 - 9:00 p.m. in the church; sing at the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass and on feast days. This choir is for those who have some choir experience.
- 11:30 a.m. Choir: Rehearse on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. in the church; sing at the 11:30 a.m. Sunday Mass. This is a new group to the parish and is designed to give basic music instruction. All are welcome!
- Hand Bells: Rehearse on some Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 7:15 p.m. in the church and perform on special occasions. Some music skills are helpful, but having a good sense of rhythm is vital. OLL has 3 octaves of Malmark hand bells.
- Resurrection Choir: Support a grieving family at their time of loss. No rehearsals; just show up and sing the hymns! We will add interested parishioners to our contact list.
- Cantors: Sing the Responsorial Psalm and Gospel Acclamation, and may announce gathering and closing songs. Music reading skill and a pleasant voice is required. Funeral and wedding work available to those with solo ability. Rehearsals are Thursday evenings at 6:00 p.m. in the church.
- Instrumentalists: String players, brass players, and winds (oboe, flute, English horn, and bassoon) are welcome.
Contact Information.
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— N —
Natural Family Planning (NFP)
Natural Family Planning (NFP) provides instruction, counseling, and information on the various methods of natural family planning, and promotes understanding of the Church’s teachings on human sexuality and marriage. NFP is a natural way to postpone or achieve pregnancy by learning how to interpret the signs of fertility that indicate the fertile and infertile times of a woman’s cycle. Proven to be 99% effective with proper instruction and practice. Visitors are welcome to observe the class before joining. Class schedules vary. Contact Information.
Newcomer's Welcome Luncheon
If you are new to our parish, you are most welcome to attend one of these luncheons. To register in our parish, newcomers are asked to fill out an Interest Form and select which luncheon they would like to attend. Luncheons are held in the Fallon Center after the 11:30 Mass almost monthly. (Registration Cards are filled out and collected after lunch.) Newcomers will have the opportunity to meet other new families. Staff members and some of our Ministry Coordinators will give short, informational presentations at the end of the luncheon. Topics include parish opportunities for worship, fellowship, service to others, and recreation. There will be information on parish communications and information sources as well as descriptions of some of the important annual parish events and organizations. Childcare is available after lunch in an adjacent room.
If you would like to become a member of this energetic, hospitable committee, please call either the parish office or the contact person for this ministry. Contact Information.
Nursery
The nursery provides childcare during the 9:00 a.m. Sunday Mass for children 6 months to 3 years of age. The nursery is run by a cooperative group of parents that provide care on a rotating basis. Contact Information.
Nursing Home/Assisted Living/Shut-In Ministry
The Nursing Home/Assisted Living/Shut-In Ministry visits and brings the Eucharist to shut-in parishioners and Catholics in area nursing homes and assisted-living facilities. Training and orientation is provided to new volunteers. Contact Information.
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— O —
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish School
We invite parishioners to help in our school and encourage all (including our valuable senior citizens) to be a part of this important mission of our parish. If you have gifts of time and talent that you wish to share, please contact the school office.
Mission Statement: Our Lady of Lourdes Parish School partners with parents to provide a quality Catholic education that focuses on the spiritual, intellectual, emotional, and social growth of its students. This education is based on the Eucharist, prayer, stewardship, and Catholic traditions as reflected in the Gospel teachings of Jesus. Contact Information.
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— P —
Parish Library
The parish library provides a variety of spiritual books to parishioners. The library is located on the upper level of the church next to the rooms of Reconciliation. Donations of books or funds to the library are always welcome. The library operates on the honor system, which means you do not have to sign out the book. All parishioners are invited to borrow reading materials and return them when finished. Any monetary funds donated will be used to purchase new books to add to the library.
“Created and Redeemed” DVD video series is now available on loan through the Office of Faith Formation. Please call Joan Rose at 919.861.4614 or contact her by email at joan.rose@raldioc.org. The series is divided into 8 one-hour segments and hosted by Christopher West. Contact Information.
Parish Office Assistants
Parish office assistants help with clerical duties on an as needed basis. Contact Information.
Parish Photography
We photograph and/or videotape important parish events for posting in the church vestibule, bulletin, website and parish office. Some of the events we cover are the parish picnic, ministry fairs, Vacation Bible School, Corpus Christi and Holy Week events. We publish photos of the RCIA “graduates”, First Communicants, Confirmandies and parish newcomers. We videotaped the Mission talks and other major parish events. We also cover most of the diocesan events that take place at Our Lady of Lourdes. We support the various parish ministries and organizations with photography and/or video production as needed. Contact Information.
Pastoral Council
The Pastoral Council is an appointed body that serves in an advisory capacity to the pastor. The Council provides significant leadership in formulating parish goals for annual submission to the Diocese. Meetings are held monthly (except July) and are open to all parishioners. Any person wishing to address the Council should contact the Chairperson. Contact Information.
Prayer Blanket Ministry
The Prayer Blanket Ministry is for anyone in the parish, their family, and friends who are in need of prayer and comfort during a serious illness. In time of anxiety and suffering, people need to know that they are covered in love and prayers by the faith community of Our Lady of Lourdes. Each blanket is sewn by a member of the parish, blessed by the pastor at a special Mass, and includes special prayers and a letter of encouragement. Blessed blankets are a gift from the parish. To make a request or volunteer to sew, call the contact person for this ministry. Contact Information.
Prison Ministry
“I was in prison, and you came to visit me . . . I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:35-36, 40) Our parishioners help to bridge the gulf between persons confined and those in the outside community. Through listening and mentoring we demonstrate a continuing concern for offenders and help in the process of their re-integration into society. Contact Information.
Project Gabriel
Project Gabriel is a pro-life ministry that reaches out to and helps women in crisis pregnancies who choose life for their unborn children. Volunteers are needed to: provide transportation to doctor’s visits, church, etc.; collect maternity clothes, baby clothes, baby goods, cribs, and car seats; take an expectant mother to lunch or dinner; provide companionship, friendship, and emotional support; offer a daily Rosary for Gabriel Project clients. Contact Information.
Project Rachel
Project Rachel extends the healing grace of God to women and men wounded by participation in abortion. In a caring and hopeful context, individuals can move towards reconciliation with their aborted children, their families, the Church, and God. Contact Information.
Pro-Life
Pro-life activities include a Pro-Life Rosary each Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m. in the adoration chapel, on Sundays at 8:30 a.m. in the Adoration Chapel, and before the 11:30 a.m. Mass on Sunday in the church, as well as participation in Deanery-wide and national pro-life activities.
The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has called upon all parishes to “vigorously” advance the pro-life position. John Paul II stated that the condition for survival of America depends on our treatment of the unborn. Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever welcomes this child in my name, welcomes me and whoever welcomes me also welcomes the one who sent me.” Luke 9:48. Please consider welcoming the unborn child in your hearts by joining the Pro-Life ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes. Contact Information.
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— Q —
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— R —
Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA)
Our Lady of Lourdes community welcomes adults interested in finding out more about the Catholic Church. The RCIA is a journey of faith focusing on the teachings of Jesus Christ and the traditions of the Church. It is a process of sharing, learning, praying, and discussion to prepare for full communion. The RCIA is for those who have never been baptized and for those who have been baptized in another denomination and want to become a member of the Catholic Church. Weekly sessions meet on Tuesday evenings. Call the Faith Formation Director for details. Contact Information.
Red Cross Disaster Services
The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that provides free emergency assistance to hundreds of local families that experience disasters annually. Local volunteers lead the Red Cross and deliver emergency services throughout our communities. They also provide free disaster preparedness education and collaborate with other non-government and government agencies to help reduce the impact of natural and man-made disasters.
For more information on how you can serve humanity, visit www.trianglearc.org or call 919.231.1602 and ask for Tracie Thomason, Client Casework Coordinator, Disaster Services. Contact Information.
Refugee Resettlement
Refugee Resettlement assists refugees, persecuted for their religious or political beliefs in their country of origin. Activities are closely coordinated with Lutheran Family Services. Volunteers nurture newly arrived families by helping them with locating a dwelling, food, employment, transportation, ESL training, tutoring, and budgeting. Donations of furniture, bedding, utensils, household articles, and clothing are always needed. Also needed is storage space for donations and folks with trucks who can help transport the donations from the donors to the recipients. Contact Information.
Rosary for the Children
Rosary for the Children meets every Wednesday from 9:30 - 10:30 a.m. in the Fallon Center Lounge. Anyone who loves children is welcome. Please join us as we pray the Rosary for all the children of the parish that they grow in strength, wisdom, and love of God. Children in our parish school and Sunday Faith Formation programs submit personal intentions through their classrooms. These are read aloud before the Rosary is prayed. Childcare is available in the Fallon Center Nursery. Contact Information.
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StepUP Ministry
StepUP Ministry is an inter-faith, non-profit organization founded in 1988 that annually prepares and empowers over 600 low wage and homeless individuals to change their lives and become self-sufficient. This is done through a multi-phase program that includes a 19 hour long week of Jobs training and a 12 month Life Skills class. The Life Skills class represents the heart of StepUP as a learning community and utilizes a phased, incentive driven model complimented by staff case managers and volunteer co-partners. The class, which addresses the needs of both adults and children, meets every Tuesday night from 6:00-8:15 p.m. at White Memorial Presbyterian Church and involves 4 phases which include spiritual/personal development; goal setting, budgeting, and financial literacy; relational development; and career/credit development. StepUP is currently seeking volunteers to serve as co-partners for the Life Skills participants. This is a meaningful and rewarding way to directly impact the life of someone seeking to change. If you are interested please contact Kathleen Hofstadter, StepUP’s volunteer coordinator, at 919.781.0156, ext. 111 to arrange a visit to the Life Skills program. Contact Information.
Stewardship Council
The work of the Stewardship Council is to continue to strengthen the community by encouraging members to find their places as members of the Body of Christ, each having been given different gifts and charisms for the common good. The committee helps accomplish this by improving communications within the parish, by making it easy to find opportunities for service, and by supporting parish and ministry leadership and ministers, which builds the sense of community within the parish. Members are appointed by the pastor. Contact Information.
Support Circle Ministry
Catholic Charities has partnered with the Raleigh/Wake County 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness Coalition to engage members of local faith communities to help break the cycle of poverty by assisting families in becoming self-sufficient.
The objectives of Support Circles are:
- To assist families in achieving economic independence
- To empower participants to develop long-term, realistic personal objectives in terms of career decisions, housing, financial management, and citizenship
- To offer support services and resources related to educational placement, job training, and employment
- To assist families in evaluating and improving their quality of life
- To invite families to participate in the community, in a church and/or civic organization, etc.
Additional opportunities to help the sponsored families are available for parishioners who are unable to commit to being a member of a Support Circle. These will be published in the church bulletin. Contact Information.
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Ushers
Ushers provide seating assistance and direct the offertory collection, Eucharist procession, and bulletin distribution. Ushers serve at weekend liturgies and special liturgical celebrations. Contact Information.
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Vacation Bible School (VBS)
Vacation Bible School (VBS), a half-day program for children ages 3 through Grade 5, is an annual event planned for one week in June. Parent volunteers are needed to plan and participate in the fun-filled, high-energy event. Committee Chairs are needed each year for planning, crafts, snacks, bible adventures, music, and more. Junior volunteers, Grades 6-12, are also needed to assist and can earn service hours for the week. Contact Information.
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Wedding Committee
The OLL Wedding Committee provides a complimentary service to each couple being married at OLL. Two coordinators are assigned for each wedding, attending both the rehearsal and wedding ceremony to ensure it runs smoothly. The ministry is designed to take as much worry out of the day as possible for the nervous couple by making sure the flowers have arrived, pinning on the boutonnieres, distributing programs if need be, gathering the bridal party in place and instructing them when to walk down the aisle, helping with the Eucharist, and so on. Since people have different versions of their own “dream” wedding, no two weddings are ever the same. Large, small, formal, casual, ring bearers, flower girls, traditional and non-traditional weddings, it is always a joy to be among a church full of people celebrating the beginning of a new relationship through marriage. Contact Information.
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Young Adult Ministry
The Young Adult Ministry welcomes young adults ages 21-35, single or married. The ministry creates social networks, works to deepen spiritual life and encourages active participation in community service.
Contact Information.
Youth Ministry
Youth Ministry is a program for 6th through 12th graders focusing on empowering young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today; drawing youth to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community; and fostering the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.
The program offers on-going Catechesis, including sacramental preparation for Confirmation. The prerequisite to entering the one-year Confirmation preparation program is completion of one year of parish or Catholic school religious education.
Youth led service projects include “Backpack Buddies”, Thanksgiving Baskets and Gifts of the Magi. All youth and their families are invited to participate.
Social programs include a ski trip, white water rafting trip, lock-ins, and mystery trips. Retreats include high school and middle school mission trips, diocesan retreats, parish retreats, and girls’ beach retreat. Peer ministry involves retreats created by high school youth for middle school youth. Service projects are planned on a monthly basis and provide youth the chance to gather as a community while serving God and others. Youths gather Sunday evenings year round for food, fun, fellowship and faith sharing.
Adult leaders are needed as:
- Catechists: Teach and mentor teens in grades 6-12
- Mentors: Assist in chaperoning, small group discussions, and leadership roles
Contact Information.
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