“Today, a flourishing life is often confused with a materially wealthy life or a life of unrestricted individual autonomy and pleasure…Yet we know that this is not enough. We see this in affluent societies where many people struggle with loneliness, with despair and a sense of meaninglessness.” Pope Leo XIV
Addressing the International Catholic Legislators Network on August 23, 2025, Pope Leo XIV discussed the theme of their annual conference, The Future of Human Flourishing. “The future of human flourishing depends on which ‘love’ we choose to organize our society around – a selfish love, the love of self, or the love of God and neighbor,” he added. Flourishing is the process of growing to our full potential as human beings in Christ, where we can cultivate love and justice, building a society that reflects God’s glory through strong families, communities, and respect for creation.
A wonderful way to grow toward our full potential and counteract the loneliness, despair, and meaninglessness to which Pope Leo refers is through volunteerism – giving of our time and talent selflessly in caring service. Each of us possesses useful gifts, which are infused and sanctified at our baptism by God. Perhaps you are feeling called to use these gifts in a new ministry that helps The Basilica fulfill its mission and is rewarding and engaging for you. Many of our ministries and programs need additional help – you, too, are called! Here are some of the great ways for you to get involved with our parish community.
- Liturgical Ministries: Acolyte, Eucharistic Minister, Minister of Hospitality (Usher), Lector, Sacristan, Altar Guild, and helping with the Liturgical Environment. Please contact Tyler Andreae (tandreae@mary.org) to learn more.
- Music Ministries: Cantor, Cathedral Choir (9:30am Mass), Children’s Choirs, Contemporary Ensemble (noon and 5:30pm Masses), Juventus and Mundus (Noon Mass). Please contact Patrick Schneider (pschneider@mary.org) or Mackenzie Kloempken (mkloempken@mary.org) to learn more.
- Sacramental and Learning Ministries: Children’s and Youth Catechist (teacher) or Assistant, OCIA Sponsor, or Marriage Mentor Couple. Please contact Melissa Streit (mstreit@mary.org) to learn more.
- Care, Service, and Justice Ministries: Emmaus Listening Ministry, Grief Ministry, and Job Coach. St. Vincent de Paul Ministries: Mentor Ministries, Side-by-Side Saturdays, and Immigrant Support Ministry. Mental Health, Access & Inclusion Ministries, Creation Justice, Restorative Justice and more. Please contact Janice Andersen (jandersen@mary.org) to learn more.
- Administration Ministries: Outdoor and Lawn Care, Security Ministry, Doughnut Pick up, Event Volunteers and more. Please contact Kris McBride (kmcbride@mary.org) or Melissa Streit (mstreit@mary.org) to learn more.
- Mission Advancement Ministries: Basilica Fund Ambassadors and Event Volunteers. Please contact Leah Santer (lsanter@mary.org) to learn more.
Involvement in volunteer ministry at The Basilica enriches your life, enhances our congregation, and serves our broader community for the glory of God. Through your volunteer efforts and God’s grace, your connection to the Church, your community, and to God grows and deepens. You are invited to join and grow in volunteer ministry at The Basilica.
“When we live out a spirituality of drawing nearer to others and seeking their welfare, our hearts are opened wide to the Lord’s greatest and most beautiful gifts. Whenever we encounter another person in love, we learn something new about God.” Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis
Melissa Streit
Director of Engagement and Family Life