Welcome to St. Mary's of the Lake

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Ministries, Stewardship and Organizations

Ministries, Stewardship, and Organizations
At St. Mary’s of the Lake, we are blessed with a vibrant parish community sustained by the faith and generosity of our parishioners. Every ministry, committee, and organization provides an opportunity to live out our baptismal call to serve God and one another. Whether through prayer, worship, or acts of service, there is a place for everyone to share their time and talents. 

Liturgical and Prayer Ministries

  • Altar Server Ministry: Altar servers assist the priest during Mass by carrying the cross and candles and helping at the altar. This ministry is open to boys and girls who have received their First Eucharist and wish to serve God and our parish community.

  • Lector Ministry: Lectors proclaim the Word of God during Mass and other liturgies. Adults and confirmed high school students are invited to serve and are scheduled on a rotating basis.

  • Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion: Trained and commissioned parishioners assist in distributing the Eucharist during Mass and bring Holy Communion to the homebound.

  • Ushers and Greeters: Our ushers welcome parishioners and guests, assist with seating, and help ensure that our liturgies flow smoothly. To volunteer, please contact the Parish Office.

  • Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament: Adoration is offered on the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month from 7:00–8:00 PM. All are welcome to spend quiet time in prayer and reflection before the Lord.

  • Devotions and Prayer Opportunities: Parish devotions include retreats, missions, and seasonal Penance Services. The Rosary is prayed Tuesday through Friday after morning Mass, and the Miraculous Medal Novena is prayed on Tuesdays.

  • Prayer Chain & Prayer Shawl Ministry: The Prayer Chain is a network of parishioners who pray for the intentions of others. The Prayer Shawl Ministry creates shawls as a tangible expression of God’s love for those who are suffering or celebrating life’s milestones. To make a prayer request or join either ministry, please email stmarysgeneralmail@syrdio.org or call (315) 685-5083.

Pastoral Care and Support

  • Communion to the Sick and Homebound: Our ministers bring the Eucharist to those unable to attend Mass. Please contact the Parish Office if you or someone you know would like a visit.

  • Hospital Visits: If you are hospitalized, please notify the Parish Office and ask to be listed as Catholic upon admission. Hospital confidentiality laws prevent us from being notified otherwise.

  • Gluten Intolerance and Hearing Assistance: Gluten-free hosts and portable hearing devices are available. Please contact the Parish Office for assistance.

  • Funeral and Hospitality Ministries: The Food and Kitchen Committees provide meals for parish receptions and funeral luncheons. Volunteers are always welcome to assist in these compassionate ministries.

  • Bereavement Group – “Lifted in Hope”: The group meet the forth Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm in the Parish Center. All who are experiencing loss now or in the past, are welcome. Contact the Parish Office for more information.

Stewardship and Parish Life

  • Stewardship of Time, Talent, and Treasure: Every parishioner is encouraged to consider how they can offer their gifts in service to the Church. Stewardship is a joyful response to God’s generosity and a vital part of parish life.

  • Electronic Giving: Parishioners may contribute through our Electronic Giving Program. To enroll or adjust your donation, please contact the Parish Office.

  • Annual Financial Report & Contribution Statements: St. Mary’s fiscal year runs July 1–June 30. Financial reports are shared each September, and annual contribution statements are mailed each January.

  • Parish Pastoral Council: The Council serves as the principal consultative body to the Pastor, helping to guide the pastoral mission and future planning of our parish community.

  • New Parishioners & Travel Updates: New members are warmly welcomed—please contact the Parish Office to register. If you are traveling or spending winters away, let us know to adjust your mailings.

Organizations and Community Outreach

  • Knights of Columbus: A fraternal organization committed to charity, unity, and fraternity. Local Council #207 meets at 47 Market Street, Auburn. Visit www.kofc.org for more information.

  • Skaneateles Clergy Association: St. Mary’s pastor collaborates with other local faith leaders to promote ecumenical understanding and service within the Skaneateles community.

  • Skaneateles Ecumenical Food Pantry: Located at 820 W. Genesee Street (behind the Cedar House), the Food Pantry provides essential assistance to those in need. Donations may be dropped off at St. Mary’s; weekly needs are listed in the Parish Bulletin.

  • Safe Environment Program: In compliance with the U.S. Bishops’ “Protecting God’s Children,” all clergy, staff, and volunteers working with minors must complete Safe Environment training. Adult parishioners are encouraged to attend sessions as well.

Communication and Resources

  • Parish Bulletin and Ads: Bulletins are available on SeekAndFind.com or via the link on our home page. To advertise, contact Liturgical Publications at 1-800-888-4574.

  • Televised Sunday Mass: The Sunday Mass airs weekly on WSYR Channel 9 (6:30 AM), Time Warner Cable Channel 4 (10:30 AM), and online at TheSundayMass.org.

Through every ministry, organization, and act of service, we live out our parish mission: to love God, serve others, and grow in faith together. Your gifts make our parish stronger—thank you for being part of the St. Mary’s family.