Liturgical Ministry
Lectors:
The ministry of the Lector is to proclaim the Word of God at the Eucharist. Those people who believe they have the gift of proclaiming the Word can call Sr. Rachel. Formation sessions are held annually.
Eucharistic Ministers
Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist participate in the Mass by offering the sacred Bread and Wine at Communion. Formation sessions are held annually for anyone who might be interested in this ministry.
Eucharistic Ministry to Homebound
The Eucharist (Communion) is taken to shut-ins the first Friday of each month, plus before Christmas and Easter by the priests and sister. Communion is taken to the shut-ins every other Sunday (except the first Sunday) by parishioners who are Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist. Anyone who wishes to help with the Communion should call the Parish Office, (309) 688-3446.
Music
There are two choirs at St. Thomas: the 9:30 am choir–practice is on Thursday at 7:00 pm in the lower level of the church. The 5:00 pm choir practice is according to notice. We are always in need of vocalists, instrumentalists, and choir members to enhance the worship services. Many participants will make the commitment for each person less often.
Ushers
Ushers are ministers of hospitality who help to make people feel welcome at the services. We welcome both men and women to help with this ministry at all Masses.
Altar Servers
Boys and girls grades five through eight are welcome to serve at the altar. Fr. Taylor is the coordinator.
Liturgy of the Word for Children
Children grades one through six meet during the readings/homily of the 9:30 am Mass to learn about the Word of God for the given Sunday. Catechists volunteer to teach the children. We have catechists (teachers) for both the lower grades and upper grades.
Liturgy Committee
The Liturgy Committee meets to plan the liturgical seasons of the year for the weekend Masses.