Ministry at Saint Peter’s Ministry is the work of all the church’s members. Through ministry we carry on Jesus Christ’s work in the world according to the gifts and talents given to us by God.
Christian Formation and Pastoral Care
Sunday School
We offer Sunday School for children and youth every Sunday morning from September through May. Children in preschool and elementary school meet together and then split up into two age groups to learn The curriculum “Weaving God’s Promises” includes bible stories, our church’s teachings and traditions, learning about the sacraments, and features crafts and activities which reinforce children’s learning. Youth in Middle School and High School meet separately for a more free-form program which includes discussions of life issues and the Bible, as well as activities which engage youth in doing good in the world. All Sunday School sessions begin at 8:45 AM and last one hour.
Adult Bible Study
This popular Bible study program is led by our Rector, Fr. Dave Hedges on a seasonal basis. Each Spring and each Fall a course is offered ranging from five to eight weeks. Based on the Kerygma Program curriculums, these studies delve deep into the meaning and content of Scripture and connect it to our lives, contemporary issues, and the Church’s practices and teachings. All adults and youth age 16 and up are welcome to participate.
The Caregivers
The Caregivers are parish visitors who offer visits to the sick and homebound, and are able to arrange rides for those who wish to come to church occasionally. They are able to provide ministry to the needs of parishioners in a wider variety of special circumstances.
Service in the World
The Outreach Committee
The Outreach Committee coordinates our work serving the needy through cooperation with local agencies such as Hope Haven, CROP Walk, and Meals on Wheels. In addition, the Outreach Committee supervises the parish’s giving to local and international organizations serving the oppressed and those in need, such as the Sycamore Food Pantry, Heifer International, Doctors Without Borders, Hope Haven, CASA, Episcopal Relief and Development, and others.
Prayer Shawl Knitters
Our groups of knitters meets monthly to knit prayer shawls. Each stitch knitted is offered to God as an act of prayer. The shawls are then blessed in our Sunday worship and given to people who are suffering physically, spiritually, or mentally, as an aid to their prayer, and as a sign of the prayers of our congregation.
The Order of the Daughters of the King
The Daughters of the King is a nationwide order of women who are committed to a rule of prayer, service, and evangelism. They offer daily prayer for those in need, and meet regularly to build up their common commitment.
Fellowship and Hospitality
The Episcopal Church Women
The ECW is a national organization of the Episcopal Church. St. Peter’s ECW members oversee the United Thank Offering, funeral luncheons, Coffee Hour, and the Parish Supper program. Members also gather occasionally with other ECW chapters around the Diocese of Chicago for fellowship and learning.
The Men’s Fellowship
The Men’s Fellowship gathers for conversation over breakfast on the second Saturday of the month. All men of the parish are welcome to join them. The Fellowship also raises funds for service and special projects.
Buildings and Grounds
This team ensures that our grounds are kept beautiful, and that our buildings are clean, safe, and secure. Regular parish work days are scheduled twice a year, and the whole congregation is invited to help out.
Liturgical Ministries
These people take leading roles in offering the worship of the Church according to their gifts. Acolytes are youth and adults who serve at the altar with the priest. The Altar Guild is responsible for preparing and cleaning the sanctuary, and care for the vestments, linens, and liturgical vessels. Eucharistic Ministers administer the sacramental wine during worship. Lectors are those who read the appointed selections from the Bible during each service. Prayer Leaders lead the whole congregation in offering prayer for the life of the Church and for the needs of the World. Ushers welcome worshipers, assist them in finding a seat and in following our service, and collect the offerings and bring them to the altar.