The Altar Guild is a behind-the-scenes ministry that serve as caretakers of the sacred elements used to support the worship life of the church. The Altar Guild works in small teams that prepare for weekly services by creating a space that fosters reverence and devotion. They are also responsible for preparing the church for special liturgical occasions, such as weddings, baptisms, funerals, Christmas, Easter, and Holy Week. These services often require extra preparation and attention to detail, and the Altar Guild is at the heart of these efforts. 

Serving as a member of the Altar Guild is in itself a spiritual practice.  It requires a commitment to the work of the Church and a dedication to the care of the sacred elements used in worship. By serving in this capacity, the guild members are directly contributing to the spiritual lives of our fellow parishioners, and in turn, deepening our own faith.  The Altar Guild is a way of quietly participating in God’s work by ensuring that our sacred sanctuary is prepared for the worship of God.  Here is what serving on the Altar Guild means to some of our members:

It has always been a privilege to do what I call "Holy Housework." Gathering, usually unnoticed, with other Altar Guild members to prepare God's table is a very special service. It is a joy to serve at God's Altar. As a member of St. Peter's Altar Guild for many years it has been an honor to help prepare our sanctuary for worship. - Love to all, Janet Santosuosso

I love learning about the significance of the objects that we handle each week and preserving the meaningful traditions of our church. It is an honor to contribute to the sacred life of St. Peter’s. I also greatly enjoy the fellowship with the other Altar Guild members. – Maureen Nichols

I love being with the ladies who love the Lord and enjoy working on the Altar Guild. I enjoy preparing the Lord’s supper so that Fr. Derek can serve it to the congregation. I have served on the Altar Guild for a long time. – Dorothy Kemp

It is a privilege and an honor to serve on the Altar Guild. – Su Booher

The Altar Guild is an amazing ministry in which to be involved. It is truly an honor and blessing to be able to assist in setting the Lord’s table. Working with this wonderful group of dedicated ladies is such a pleasure. Our leadership over the years is second to none! – Margaret Stevens

For the love of helping our St Peter’s family in their Godly worship together. – Cindy Gutowski

Several years ago, during a particularly difficult time for me, my cherished friend, Marion Gatliff, asked me to consider joining the Altar Guild. I pushed through self-doubts and agreed to, as I have realized, one of the most meaningful endeavors of my life. 

Our sacred work includes assisting the clergy and preparing for the Eucharist and many other varied church services. My favorite time is the all-member Alter Guild meetings when we all gather around the altar and pray our beautiful Altar Guild Prayer as we vow to adorn the Lord's Alter with love and reverence. We then wash and polish the vessels, oil the candles, change the linens and flowers and prepare all that is part of His services. My small contribution to the Altar Guild ministry feeds me spiritually with each and every encounter as I go about doing God's work. – Peace, Frankie Wilson 

It makes me happy to help with this special service for St. Peters' Church. I learned about "keeping the altar" as a teenager (many years ago!). – Evelyn Grant

Belonging to the Altar Guild has been such a blessing to me. First of all, it is an opportunity to work with a wonderful group of women as we work behind the scenes to serve God’s people. There is so much more than meets the eye with this ministry. Much of the work may be unseen, but it is felt by all who come to worship each week. Our members serve with joy and dedication with our hands and our hearts. What a wonderful way to be able to serve the Lord! – Sandy Black