Get involved!

The word “liturgy” sometimes sounds daunting, but it shouldn’t be. It literally means “the work of the people.” This holy work takes place whether it includes an organ, an electric guitar, a hymnal, or lyrics on a screen. Worship guides all that we do at Swansboro UMC, and we want to find ways for all to participate, and in many cases, also lead or assist. Below are some specific ways you can get involved:

Music Ministry

We have a variety of worship opportunities at Swansboro United Methodist Church. People enjoy worshiping God in different ways. There are three worship services each weekend. Each service has a different music style.

For more information regarding Music Ministries contact
Kristen Viszneki, 910.326.4822, ext. 1007.

Music is one of the best ways we can praise God. If you like making music, we have many opportunities for you to enjoy singing or playing in musical groups.

Greeters

Greeters are on hand at every service to welcome everyone who enters our church. We’re happy to see you and our greeters prove it to you with a friendly smile and handshake.

 Ushers

Our faithful ushers also welcome members and visitors. In addition, ushers assist in seating, providing an escort if needed, and taking up the offerings during the services. They monitor the lights and temperature of the sanctuary and are on call for any needs of the pastor or congregation during services. They also keep track of attendance figures.

If you are interested in serving as a Greeter or Usher, please contact Susan Stuart. It’s a great way to get to know more people in our congregation!

Acolytes

Acolytes have been serving churches for a very long time. In the year 251, A.D., there were 42 acolytes serving in the churches of Rome. The word acolyte comes from a Greek word meaning helper. Acolytes assist the ministers in leading worship. It is a very important task.

At Swansboro UMC, our acolyte program begins when our youth are usually in sixth grade. Young people receive training as acolytes as a part of their confirmation training and serve through high school. Contact Susan Casper (text to 910.554.9698) or Barbara Chandler if you have questions or are interested in participating in this program.

The most frequent job of an acolyte is to light and extinguish the candles used during worship. Since Old Testament times, fire and light have reminded people that God is with us. When an acolyte brings in the fire, it is a reminder to all of us that God is present with us. At the end of worship, an acolyte relights the candle lighter and carries the fire reverently out of the worship space to remind us that when we scatter out into the world, God will be there with us, too. The light of Christ goes with us as we leave the church building. One acolyte each service serves as a crucifer who leads us into and out from worship with a processional cross.

Acolytes also help with special services at Christmas and Easter.