Linen Ministry
Who We Are & What We Do
The Linen Ministry plays a vital role in the celebration of the Mass by ensuring that the sacred tinens used at the altar are properly cared for. These linens, which accompany the Body and Blood of Christ and are used for the presider’s handwashing during the Liturgy of the Eucharist, require special handling—including soaking, washing, folding, and ironing. Our ministry lovingly provides this behind-the-scenes but essential service to the parish
Why We Exist
Sacred linens are an important part of the reverence and beauty of the Eucharistic celebration. As the items that touch the Body and Blood of Christ, they must be handled with care and devotion. This ministry exists to ensure that our liturgies are celebrated with dignity and reverence, reflecting the sacredness of the Mass itself.
Who We Serve
By caring for the altar linens, we serve our entire parish community, supporting the priests, deacons, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion who use them during the liturgy. Through our quiet yet essential work, we contribute to the beauty and order of the Mass, helping to create a space where the faithful can worship with devotion.
Volunteer Opportunities
Many hands make light work! Volunteers typically:
- Pick up linens on Monday and return them Friday or Saturday before the first weekend liturgy.
- Wash and care for the linens at home, on their own schedule.
- Serve on a rotating basis—the more volunteers we have, the less frequently each person is assigned (currently about every other month).
Special Requirements
No special skills are required—just a little time and care to complete the task. Linens must be soaked before laundering, and the water should be returned to the earth, not poured down the drain. An iron and spray starch are also needed to ensure the linens are clean, crisp, and ready for use at Mass. This is a beautiful way to serve quietly behind the scenes while playing an essential role in the life of the Church. If you are looking for a flexible and meaningful way to give back, we’d love to have you join us!