PARISH LIFE & MINISTRIES
At The Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist, ministry is the heartbeat of our parish. Every act of worship, service, and fellowship reflects our commitment to love God and serve our neighbors with compassion and joy. Whether we are gathered in the sanctuary or working in the community, our ministries embody faith in action, living out the Gospel through care, connection, and service.
ALL are welcome to serve in any of the below ministries!
Food Pantry
Once a month, our Food Pantry opens its doors to serve individuals and families in our neighborhood who are facing food insecurity. This ministry is sustained through the generosity of parishioners, community partners, and friends of the church.
We welcome donations of nonperishable food items, grocery gift cards, and monetary contributions to help us continue feeding our neighbors in need. Together, we can share God’s abundance and ensure that no one in our community goes hungry.
Episcopal Church Women
This very active group of women attends to matters pertaining to the well-being of women in the church. The ECW participates in programs and projects that affect the life of the church on a consistent basis.
Men’s Fellowship Group
All men of the parish are encouraged to participate in this fellowship. The Men’s Club undertakes various projects to maintain and enhance the church building and grounds. They actively participate and support the social and serving functions in the life of the church.
Altar Guild
The Altar Guild is committed to working on and around the altar preparing for each communion service held in the church. The members are charged with the care and maintenance of linens, vessels, and all other items used for Holy Communion.
Eucharistic Ministers & Eucharistic Visitors
Our Eucharistic Ministers serve at the Altar and assist the priest at during worship services. Eucharistic Visitors assist in taking the consecrated elements to the sick and shut-in.
Lectors
We presently have a dedicated group of volunteers who play a major role in the celebration of the Mass. Our lectors read the word of God at Mass and other special services. They share, along with the priest, the task of making the word of God come alive for our parishioners.
Acolytes
Our acolytes (primarily consisting of our youth) assist clergy during services of the Holy Eucharist by performing various duties. It is a ministry for laypersons and a privileged opportunity to assist the Celebrant in the worship of God, always with emphasis on humble service.
Acolyte Practice will resume in January 2026.
Children’s/Youth Sunday School
We are committed to nurturing our youngest disciples through programs that teach faith, leadership, and love of neighbor. Our youth are encouraged to participate in worship, service, and activities that help them grow as followers of Christ. Sunday School is held each Sunday during the 10:00 AM Service. Volunteers are welcome.
Stewardship Committee
We are called to be stewards of the bounties of God. The stewardship team coordinates the stewardship campaign in September of each year. They combine all commitments for offering of tithes and pledges in preparation for the development of the annual budget. Stewardship is not just about treasure; therefore the committee works throughout the year to help members identify and develop ways in which their talents and gifts can be further used to the glory of God.
Membership Committee
The Membership Committee works to welcome guests and encourage prospective members of our congregation. The Committee assists the priest with Confirmation classes, as well as helping to complete the transfer process for members moving from another Parish. They work with the church office, to maintain an accurate membership database, and the Communication Committee to improve communication among members.
FINANCE Committee
This group dutifully works to see that the finances of the church are carefully accounted for. They manage the budget planning process each year, and assist the Vestry in ensuring that all of our financial obligations are sufficiently met each year.
UNION OF BLACK EPISCOPALIANS
The Canon Nelson Pinder UBE Chapter of Central Florida was chartered (originally the Central Florida Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians) in 1995 by a group of parishioners from St. John the Baptist. Today, the entire Executive Board is comprised of members of St. John the Baptist. The Chapter is very active, and each year members faithfully attend both the regional and national conferences.
ushers
The Ushers provide hospitality and care for members in the sanctuary. They ensure that visitors are made comfortable and feel welcome as they enter the church. They work closely with the Membership Committee in devising ways in which visitors to the church can be comfortably accommodated.