Parish Organizations & Ministries

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMs)

Extraordinary Ministers assist in the distribution of Holy Communion during Sunday and Weekday Masses and bring the Eucharist to the sick and homebound. Extraordinary Ministers are chosen by the Pastor, offered special training, and commissioned to exercise this special ministry for a particular period of time. Please note that only trained and commissioned ministers are permitted to bring Holy Communion to the sick and homebound. If you are interested in becoming an Extraordinary Minister, please contact Fr. Brody.

Lectors

Lectors proclaim the Word of God in Sacred Scripture during Sunday and Weekday Masses. They are tasked with the clear proclamation of Old and New Testament readings as well as the General Intercessions (Prayer of the Faithful) in the absence of a Deacon. These ministers are specially trained to read the Word of God within the context of Mass so that the Faithful can hear and understand what is being expressed in Sacred Scripture. If you are interested in becoming an Extraordinary Minister, please contact the Parish Office.

Altar Servers

Altar Servers assist the priest in celebrating Mass by taking part in the entrance procession and recession, helping to prepare the Altar at the Offertory, ringing the bells, and many other tasks. Boys and girls in 5^th grade and above in Catholic or public school are eligible to become altar servers. Servers are trained for Sunday and Weekday Masses as well as special Masses and Liturgies. If your child would like to become an altar server, please contact the Parish Office.

Ushers

Ushers are responsible for welcoming and greeting those entering church for Weekend Masses or special liturgies. In addition, ushers take up the collection during Mass and ensure the safety of all in the church. Typically, ushers serve at the Mass they attend regularly. If you are interested in becoming an usher, please contact the Parish Office.

Adult Choir & Cantors

The parish choir is a vibrant part of our parish liturgical celebrations. The choir leads the assembly in song every Sunday during the 11:30 AM Mass. The choir rehearses every Wednesday evening at 7:30 PM in Church. In addition, some members of the choir lead the assembly in song while serving as cantors during Sunday Masses, Holy Days, and special liturgical celebrations. For More information contact Debbi Scairato at (215) 465-9617.

Rosary Group

The rosary is prayed each morning before the 8:30 AM Mass. Join us in this beautiful devotion to Mary, our Blessed Mother.

Bible Studies & Adult Faith Formation Series

Various faith formation events are scheduled throughout the year and are announced at Weekend Masses and in the bulletin. Advent and Lenten programs are announced seasonally. If you are interested in leading or participating in a Bible Study, please contact the Parish Office.

Charismatic Prayer Group

This group is committed to the deepening of one’s prayer life through scripture reading and bearing witness to the power of the Holy Spirit with praise and thanksgiving. Meetings are held weekly on Tuesday evenings at 7:30 PM in the rectory basement and follow a format of hymn singing, teaching, witnessing, faith-sharing, and intercessory prayer. The group celebrates a social four times each year, and gathers for Mass three times a year (February, May, & November). Once a year the group gathers for a special Agape Meal celebration. Membership is open to all those seeking to deepen their relationship with the Lord through the power of the Holy Spirit.

For More information contact: Joe Di Nicolantonio @ 215-334-8480

St. Vincent DePaul Society

Founded in 1833 by Blessed Frederic Ozanam, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul is an organization of Catholic laypersons dedicated to offering personal service to those who are suffering or in need. The international society is organized in local conferences, which seek to work together with other parish members and organizations to provide services such as food cupboards, clothing drives and thrift stores. Members meet in the rectory on the 2nd Sunday of the month at 1 PM.

For More information contact: Ron Nighswander @ 215-518-3945

Knights of Columbus

Founded on March 29, 1882 by Father Michael J. McGivney, assistant pastor of St. Mary’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut, the Knights of Columbus serves as a fraternal benefit society founded on the principles of charity, unity and fraternity. The Knights render financial aid to members and their families and mutual aid and assistance are offered to sick, disabled and needy members and their families. Social and intellectual fellowship is promoted among members and their families through educational, charitable, religious, social welfare, war relief and public relief works. Catholic men of at least 18 years of age are encouraged to become part of this strong arm of the Catholic Church.

Church Cleaning Ministry

Our Church is cleaned weekly by a group of dedicated volunteers. We are always looking for more individuals to help keep our church clean and looking great. The church is usually cleaned on Thursdays following the 8:30 AM Mass unless a funeral or other event is scheduled. Please contact….to get involved!

Bowling League

St. Richard’s Bowling League runs from September through May. The mixed league is open to those 18 years of age and older (must be out of high school!). The league bowls every Wednesday evening at 6:30 PM at St. Monica’s Bowling Lanes. A small per team fee team applies. Teams consist of six players.

For More information contact: Jennie Filippello @ 215-271-6643

Holy Spirit Bingo

Weekly Bingo games at Holy Spirit Church (1857 Hartranft Street) are played each Tuesday night. Doors open at 5:00 PM and games start at 6:30 PM. Those 18 and older are invited to play for cash prizes while enjoying fellowship and complimentary coffee and cake. All proceeds benefit St. Richard Parish.