Ministries
Beloved brothers and sisters in Christ,
We welcome you with open hearts to the ministries of the African Community here in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Dubai. A community where faith, fellowship, and service come together in the love of God. These ministries exist as families within the larger body of the Church—rooted in the Word of God, nourished by the Sacraments, and guided by the Holy Spirit.
The African community at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church represents a vibrant and integral part of our parish life, bringing together cultural richness, spiritual depth, and a strong sense of fellowship. As we navigate our faith journey together, it’s important to highlight the various ministries that serve to nurture our community, support our members, and engage with the wider church. Each ministry plays a vital role in enhancing our spiritual lives and fostering connections among us.
Our mission is rooted in the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (Matthew 28:19). Guided by the Holy Spirit and nourished by the sacraments, we seek to grow together in faith, strengthen one another in hope, and share the love of Christ with our parish and the wider community.
Here, you will find a place to belong, a place to serve, and a place to encounter God more deeply. As St. Paul reminds us, “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it” (1 Corinthians 12:27). Every member is a gift, and your presence adds to the beauty and strength of our community.
We warmly invite you to join us—whether through prayer, fellowship, or active service—so that together we may live out Christ’s call to love: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:35).
May the peace of Christ dwell richly in your hearts, and may our Blessed Mother intercede for you always.
Welcome home—your place in this ministry is waiting for you.
Altar Guild
The Catholic Altar Guild ministry is a quiet yet essential service dedicated to preparing and caring for the sacred space where the Church gathers to worship. Members of this ministry handle tasks such as maintaining the altar, caring for vestments, vessels, and linens, and ensuring that everything used for liturgy reflects beauty, reverence, and dignity.
Divine Mercy
The Divine Mercy devotion, inspired by Jesus’ revelations to St. Faustina Kowalska, celebrates God’s boundless mercy and love. Through the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the iconic image of Jesus with rays of mercy, Catholics are called to trust in God’s forgiveness, seek reconciliation, and show compassion to others. As Scripture says, “The Lord is merciful and gracious” (Psalm 103:8). This devotion invites all to embrace God’s mercy and live it out in faith and love.
Eucharistic Ministry
The Eucharistic ministry is a sacred service within the Church that centers on the reverent sharing of the Body and Blood of Christ with the faithful. It is both an act of worship and a ministry of love, as those entrusted with this role witness to the real presence of Christ and extend His grace to others. Beyond the liturgy, this ministry often involves bringing Communion to the sick, the homebound, and the marginalized, ensuring that no member of the community is separated from the spiritual nourishment of the Eucharist.
Choir
Melodies in Faith: Redefining African Community Through Music
The Catholic choir ministry is a vibrant calling that lifts hearts and souls through the gift of music, transforming the liturgy into a profound encounter with God. With every note sung, choir members weave a tapestry of praise, blending harmony and faith to inspire the congregation. Rooted in dedication and love, the choir’s ministry is a sacred offering, glorifying God and uplifting the community in every hymn.
Lectors
Proclaiming the Word, Inspiring the Heart, Nurturing Community!
The lector’s ministry is vital because the Liturgy of the Word is a central part of the Mass, where God speaks directly to His people. A lector’s delivery can inspire, teach, and deepen the faith of those listening. It’s a service of humility and responsibility, requiring both spiritual commitment and practical skill. This humble service transforms the assembly, uniting them in the power of divine truth.
Usher
Guiding Souls, Serving with Love – Ushering Faith Forward!
The Usher ministry is a humble yet profound calling, where dedicated individuals become the welcoming heart of the parish. With warmth and grace, ushers guide worshippers to their seats, ensure the smooth flow of the liturgy, and create an atmosphere of hospitality that reflects Christ’s love. Their quiet service fosters a sense of community and reverence, inviting all to fully participate in the sacred celebration of the Mass.
Multi Media
The Catholic Multimedia Ministry is a vibrant calling that harnesses the power of technology to spread the Gospel and inspire faith. With creativity and dedication, members use video, audio, and digital platforms to share God’s Word, connect communities, and bring the beauty of the liturgy to life. Whether streaming Masses, crafting engaging content, or amplifying the Church’s message, this ministry transforms hearts and minds, inviting all to encounter Christ in new and meaningful ways. Through their talents, multimedia ministers illuminate the path to faith in a digital world.
Charismatic
Experience the Power of Divine Renewal
The Catholic Charismatic Renewal is a vibrant movement igniting hearts with the Holy Spirit’s transformative power. Rooted in prayer, worship, and openness to spiritual gifts, it invites believers to experience God’s love in a deeply personal way. Through lively praise, communal fellowship, and a renewed zeal for faith, it inspires Catholics to live boldly for Christ, spreading joy, healing, and hope while deepening their connection to the Church’s mission.
Legion of Mary
Serving with Love, Guided by Mary
The Legion of Mary is a spirit-filled Catholic apostolate, uniting devoted members in prayer and service to spread Christ’s love. With Mary as their guide, legionaries humbly undertake spiritual and charitable works, from visiting the sick to sharing the Gospel. Entrenched in faith and community, they inspire hearts, transform lives, and build God’s Kingdom through selfless dedication. Join the Legion and let Mary’s fiat ignite your mission!
Precious Blood
The Blood that Heals, The Love that Saves
The Precious Blood of Jesus, shed on the cross, is the ultimate expression of divine love and redemption. Each drop poured out for humanity cleanses our sins, restores our hope, and unites us to God’s eternal promise. This sacred gift, offered in sacrifice, flows through the Eucharist, nourishing our souls and guiding us to salvation. Let us cherish and honor the Precious Blood, our source of grace and everlasting life. Precious Blood, Eternal Promise