Sacristan 

Sacristan Ministry

St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Parish – Rotorua

A Ministry of Quiet Service and Deep Reverence

“Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be.”

— John 12:26

At St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop Parish, sacristans play a vital and often unseen role in preparing our sacred spaces for the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies. Their ministry is one of care, detail, and quiet faithfulness—serving behind the scenes so that others may encounter Christ in a beautiful and reverent liturgy.

What Does a Sacristan Do?

Sacristans are responsible for preparing the altar, vessels, linens, and sacred items needed for Mass. They ensure everything is in its proper place and that the celebrant and ministers are supported in their roles. Their work includes:

• Setting up the altar and sanctuary before Mass

• Preparing the chalice, ciborium, and sacramental wine and hosts

• Lighting candles and arranging liturgical books

• Supporting visiting priests and guest ministers

• Tidying the sanctuary and sacristy after Mass

This ministry requires reliability, reverence, and a heart ready to serve. Sacristans are not just preparing things—they are preparing the way for the people of God to worship well.

Weekly Sacristan Roster 2024–2025

Monday – St. Mary’s Church, 9:00 AM Mass

– Fua Seumanutafa

– Emily Gooch

– Olive Hepi

Tuesday – St. Michael’s Church, 5:00 PM Mass

– Melwyn Mathews

– Mihi Morehu

– Frances Watson

Wednesday – St. Mary’s Church, 12:05 PM Mass

– Elaine Kannan

– Christina Maher

Thursday – St. Michael’s Church, 9:00 AM Mass

– Jennifer Bolton

– Mihi Morehu

Friday – St. Mary’s Church, 9:00 AM Mass

– Mary Peina

– Frances Watson

Saturday – St. Mary’s Church, 9:00 AM Mass

– Jennifer Bolton

– Marie Leslie Garrido

Saturday Vigil – St. Michael’s Church, 5:00 PM Mass

– Victoria Cooper

– Dona Bo Roe

Sunday – St. Michael’s Church, 8:00 AM Mass

– Mary Peina

– Steven Hawks

Sunday – St. Mary’s Church, 10:00 AM Mass

– Chedly Fernando

– Divya Job Edattukaran

Sunday – St. Mary’s Church, 5:00 PM Mass

– Jasmin Fudalan

– Jennifer Bolton

Join the Ministry

If you feel called to serve in this quiet but essential ministry, we welcome you. Training and mentoring are provided. You don’t need to be an expert—just bring your faith, a sense of reverence, and a willingness to serve.

To learn more or to volunteer, please contact the parish office or speak with one of our current sacristans after Mass.

Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for all who serve humbly and faithfully in the Lord’s house.

– Aroha, Ora, Arahi – To Love, To Live, To Lead.