Ministries at St. John's Episcopal Church: Faith in Action
For over 150 years, St. John's Episcopal Church has been a cornerstone of faith and community in Cache Valley. Our doors remain open to all who seek spiritual connection, regardless of background or belief. Our vibrant community expresses its faith through a wide variety of ministries that nurture spiritual growth, foster community connections, and serve those in need.
Worship & Spiritual Growth
Formation Class
Throughout the year, we offer various formation opportunities to deepen our understanding of faith. These include Bible Study reflections, forums on topics suggested by participants, and special offerings such as our Inquirers/Confirmation Class where we explore the foundations of Christian faith and Episcopal tradition.
Book Group
Our Book Group meets intermittently throughout the year for discussions focused on faith and spirituality. Past readings have included thought-provoking works like "For the Bible Tells Me So" by Peter Enns and "The Universal Christ" by Richard Rohr.
Morning Prayer
Join us for Morning Prayer on Saturdays at 8:30 AM, led by Ed Stafford & Marj Cramer. We use the Forward Day by Day Bible devotional as a reflection and commentary on scripture passages.
Children's Chapel
During the Sunday morning service throughout the school year, children participate in Children's Chapel led by two adult facilitators. The children take active roles in their own service—carrying the cross, lighting candles, reading the Gospel, leading the children's liturgy, and collecting offerings. Following their service, they engage in activities related to that week's Gospel message through crafts, songs, games, and other interactive learning experiences.
Music Ministry
Our Music Ministry enhances worship and brings the community together through various concerts and events. We've welcomed many guest performers including the Cache Children's Choir and the American Festival Chorus directed by Craig Jessop.
Community & Fellowship
Coffee Hour Hosts
Volunteers prepare Coffee Hour every Sunday, creating a vital space for St. John's family and visitors to connect. This ministry serves as our principal weekly opportunity for fellowship and welcoming newcomers.
Fellowship Committee
This dedicated group plans church and community events that strengthen our bonds and expand our reach beyond our walls.
Girl Scouts
Girl Scout Troop 2033 meets at St. John's, helping girls develop life-long skills through activities like first aid training, learning about important women in history, camping, and earning various merit badges.
Prayer Shawl Knitting Group
If you knit or want to learn, join this group weekly on Tuesdays at 10 AM in the Paul Jones Library. Members knit and pray over shawls for those who are ill, recuperating, grieving, or in need of support. All are welcome to this fellowship opportunity.
Recital/Concert Hosts
St. John's is privileged to host many concerts and recitals. Our hosts assist performers by unlocking doors and ensuring they have everything needed for successful events.
Service & Outreach
Pastoral Care Committee
This ministry helps sustain others through difficulty or immediate need by cooking meals, providing transportation, offering emotional support, sending cards, and more. The parish is divided into neighborhoods with a designated committee member for each area.
Food Pantry Outreach
A dedicated parish volunteer delivers donated items to the local Cache Food Pantry, supporting our neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
Nursing Home Ministry
Volunteers attend services at assisted living facilities and nursing homes in Cache Valley on Sundays. These meaningful connections make a significant difference for individuals in the sunset of their lives.
Creation Care Team
The Creation Care Team ensures our church infrastructure supports an environmentally healthy community through actions such as reducing water use, limiting disposable products, and providing environmental education.
Racial Justice & Sacred Ground Committee
This committee has recently focused on the Sacred Ground series—a film-based dialogue series on race and faith consisting of documentary films and short videos that promote understanding and healing.
Church Operations
Office Volunteers
Our office remains open Monday through Thursday with volunteers helping to cover days when our Parish Administrator is away. Their duties include welcoming guests, answering phones, straightening the sanctuary for Sunday services, and folding service bulletins.
Counter Ministry
Two parishioners count the offering every Sunday after the 10 AM service, a process taking about 45 minutes that helps maintain accurate financial records for the church treasurer.
Finance Committee
This committee assists the Bishop's Committee and Treasurer in making sound financial decisions for the parish, ensuring good stewardship of our resources.
Discernment Committee
Members help guide those who are considering ordination ministries, providing spiritual support and practical wisdom.
Sunday Ministries
There are numerous opportunities to serve during our Sunday worship services:
- Reading scripture lessons
- Serving as chalice bearers
- Greeting visitors or ushering
- Participating in Altar Guild (preparing vessels and supplies for Holy Eucharist and caring for Altar linens)
- Assisting with Prayers of the People
- Serving as Subdeacons and Acolytes who assist the Priest during services
Join Us in Ministry
Whether you're drawn to spiritual formation, community building, social justice, or practical service, St. John's offers meaningful ways to express your faith through action. We believe each person brings unique gifts that strengthen our community and extend Christ's love to the world.
Interested in participating in any of these ministries? Please contact Fr. Jason to explore where your gifts and passions might find expression in our church family.
"Whatever brings you to our door—curiosity, seeking, or established faith—we welcome you just as you are."