Greeters

We recall the words from Matthew, "I was a stranger and you welcomed me."

Our Origin Story

The Ministry of Greeters at MMOC was born during the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020. A ministry of welcome was something we'd wanted to launch, but the pandemic made it urgent. To return to public celebration of the Mass, we had to comply with a list of safety precautions set by the bishops of Wisconsin. We needed to recruit and train a new kind of parish volunteer: Someone willing to show up early, stay after Mass, and all to help our brothers and sisters in Christ feel welcome, safe, and comfortable returning to Mass. Happily, in those first days, over 70 people came forward. Their service has been amazing.

Our Service

When you come to Mass at MMOC, a Greeter offers a hearty welcome with a smile and an open door. At Communion time, Greeters take up the collection. As the Mass concludes, Greeters hand out bulletins and say farewell. In other small ways, Greeters assist anyone who has a question or needs a hand.

Here is our belief about greeting: At MMOC, we often talk about "parish family". Our church is our family home. When you come home, someone greets you, and when you leave, someone wishes you well. That's part of how you know you are home, the embrace of family. Church should be a place where you feel you belong, that your presence is important. Whether you come to MMOC every day or every week or for the first time, you are at home here.

Join Us!

We welcome individuals and families into the Greeting ministry. It has been a joy to see our seniors working alongside young families. Children in middle school and up are learning servant leadership by making Greeting a family approach to ministry. If you would like to find out more about becoming a Greeter at MMOC, please call the parish office. Thank you.

The Greeters' Prayer

Lord,
Though we cannot touch with hands, help us touch our parish family with a kind word, a warm welcome, and smiling eyes.
Please help us feel your peace, and share your peace, as we greet our brothers and sisters.
We are mindful of so many people who carry worry, who feel at risk, who bear burdens in this time. May they feel your love here.
Please touch the hearts of all your people so that they may trust we are doing our best to keep them safe here.
Please send your Spirit to strengthen caregivers, to inspire researchers, and to protect all who trust in you.
We ask this in your Most Holy name. Amen.
May 2020

Greeter Checklists

Greeter Sign-In Sheet
Checklist for Sanitation Teams
Checklist for Lead Greeters

Updated 27 August 2022