PARISH LIFE & MINISTRIES

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.

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.

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.

Our choir is a cherished part of worship at St. John the Baptist, lifting hearts and spirits through music that blends the beauty of Anglican tradition with the soul of gospel and spirituals. Under the direction of Organist Carolyn Morris and Choirmaster Emeritus Ernest “Pete” Boyd, the choir rehearses weekly and joyfully welcomes new members who wish to share their voices in praise and fellowship.

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Hospitality Committee helps make St. John the Baptist a warm and welcoming home for all who enter. From greeting visitors and coordinating receptions to supporting church events and special gatherings, this ministry embodies Christian love through kindness, service, and gracious fellowship.

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.

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.

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.

Founded in 1999, our chapter of the Daughters of the King has a proud legacy of prayer, service, and leadership within the church and the Diocese of Central Florida. Over the years, the chapter played an active role in the spiritual life of St. John the Baptist—hosting quiet days, prayer circles, and service projects that supported parish ministries and the wider community. The Daughters also formed a lasting partnership with Washington Shores Elementary School, providing students with thousands of books and school supplies through the generosity of our congregation. Members of our chapter have served in key diocesan positions, and our own beloved Krisita Jackson made history as the first Black National President of the Order. Though this once-flourishing ministry is now in need of revitalization, we remain committed to renewing its mission, calling women to a deeper life of prayer, intercession, and service to God’s people.

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.

Our Technology Committee supports every aspect of worship and communication at St. John the Baptist, from managing our livestream and sound system to maintaining the church website and worship service screens. This team works faithfully behind the scenes to ensure that our message of faith reaches both those in the pews and those joining us online, using technology as a tool for connection, clarity, and praise.

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.

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.