Three women wearing matching blue t-shirts with name tags and a logo, smiling and hugging indoors.

Ministry is at the heart of everything we do at Mother of God Family of Parishes.
Whether it’s worship, service, faith formation, or fellowship, every ministry helps us live out our mission to know, love, and serve Christ together. Through our many ministries, we grow as disciples, care for one another, and share God’s love with our wider community. There’s a place for everyone to belong and a way for every gift to be shared.

Interested in starting a ministry at Mother of God Family of Parishes?

Liturgical Ministries at St. Charles & St. Charles Specific Ministries

Desire to be involved with any liturgical ministry at St. Charles? Contact Deacon Chris Jasek at 937-401-0097.

  • This committee is responsible for the artistic enhancement of liturgical celebrations and special events through the use of banners, wall hangings, vessels, candles, plants, flowers, etc. This ministry plans and maintains the décor throughout each liturgical season.

  • Eucharistic Ministers, or more properly called Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, are men, women, and teens in the parish that have been baptized Roman Catholic and have made their first communion. They assist with the reverent distribution of the Eucharist at Mass on weekends, Holy Days, funerals, 8:30 a.m. weekday services, and they may take communion to the sick and homebound. The ministry coordinator trains ministers before being placed on a team; most teams are scheduled for one Mass per month. 

  • Open to parishioners from Junior High School to adult interested in proclaiming the Word of God at Sunday and Holy Day Masses. Participants proclaim the Word at Mass and other liturgies on a rotating basis. During the Liturgy, the reader is fulfilling a mission to his or her fellow community members. It is a sacred duty that involves a sharing of one’s own faith. The readings from scripture have been chosen such that there is a spiritual message readily apparent in almost every passage.

  • This service provided by women, men, junior high, and high school students is part of the ministry of hospitality. They welcome parishioners as they arrive, help them find seats, take up the collection, and hand out the bulletins following Mass. New ushers are always welcome!

  • This ministry is open to both students and adults, male and female. Training is offered at the beginning of each school year for St. Charles School, CCD, and home-schooled students, 5th through 8th grade. Training for high school students and adults will be offered individually by calling the parish office at 937-434-6081.

  • Greeters are part of the ministry of hospitality. Our greeters have a friendly, warm smile to welcome our parish family and visitors to Mass and direct those unfamiliar with our building. Families, as well as singles and couples, are encouraged to be a part of this ministry. Scheduling is one Mass per month.

  • The nursery is staffed by coordinators assisted by volunteers to ensure a high level of care and safety for all children. Nursery services are available to children from 6 months to 4 yrs during the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Mass, and for those in the OCIA process.

  • This active yet contemplative ministry launders and cares for the altar linens. Participants are scheduled four to five times a year to pick up purificators, towels, and altar cloths to wash, iron, and fold.

  • This ministry is dedicated to bringing the sung prayer of the assembled community to life. If you are interested in becoming a member of this ministry, please contact Music Director Christian Cosas.

    Adult Choirs: These ensembles sing for the 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Masses on Sundays, as well as the 5 p.m. Saturday Mass. Members must be at least high school age. The choirs rehearse Wednesday evenings from 7-9 p.m. during the school year. They also sing for solemnities and the other occasions including Christmas, Holy Week and concerts. Adult cantors are usually members of the choir and attend the Wednesday evening rehearsals.

    Funeral choir: Sings on demand for all funeral and memorial Masses. The funeral choir rehearses 30 minutes before each liturgy for the deceased.

    Instrumentalists: These musicians accompany the Saturday 5 p.m. and Sunday 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Masses. They also play for solemnities and other occasions including Christmas, Holy Week and concerts. Instruments vary and include guitar, piano, organ, percussion, marimba, violin, cello, flute, trumpet and others. Instrumentalists typically are high school age or older, and may be asked to audition. They are encouraged, but not required, to attend the adult choir’s Wednesday evening rehearsals; other rehearsals may be required, especially for special events.

  • The St. Charles Diakonia Fund, which was established over 50 years ago, provides money for our in-house social service ministries. The fund also supports Christian based non-profit organizations in our area that are well suited to serving social needs in a highly focused and efficient way. These organizations include Elisabeth’s New Life Center, Good Shepherd Ministries, St. Vincent DePaul, Hope Emergency Program, House of Bread, the Kettering Backpack Program, and Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley.  With the hard work of many volunteers, St. Charles’s social justice organizations are able to provide many services to the poor. 100% of the donations that we receive into our Diakonia fund directly support human needs in the Miami Valley.

Liturgical Ministries at St. Albert & St. Albert Specific Ministries

    • Who: Boys and girls from 4th grade and up

    • When: Serve at weekend Masses + special liturgies

    • Contact: Parish Office or Fr. Matthew Niehaus

  • The liturgical musicians help the people to respond through music and song during the Mass. They lead the assembly at key points in the liturgy such as the Entrance Procession, the Psalm, the Alleluia, the Eucharistic Prayer, and Communion. The liturgical musicians could be those who sing, play instruments, and join with others in a choir. Being able to read music is a plus, but not a requirement.

    Music Ministry provides opportunities for many individuals to participate as vocalists and instrumentalists. Musicians lead the congregation in song prayer and add to the spirituality of the liturgy.

    • Parish Choir 
      The parish choir is open to all parishioners, high school age and above.  

    • Resurrection Choir
      This choir provides musical support for parish funeral liturgies.

    • St. Albert Singers
      For more information, contact Lou Lunne at 298-7485.

    • Youth Choir
      This group of singers proclaims the Word of God. Membership is open to those from junior high to adult.


    Director     Joe Whatley, 937-281-1085
    Youth:  Judy Drake 

    • What: Assist at Communion during Mass and bring Eucharist to the homebound

    • When: Scheduled for weekend Masses + hospital/home visits

    • Contact: Parish Office

  • The lectors (readers) play an important role in the Liturgy of the Word as they proclaim and share the Word of God with the people gathered. They read the first and second readings at Sunday and special/Holy Day Masses.  They also read the petitions at Mass.  Lectors are scheduled once a month; however, you have opportunity to read more as a sub, which are always needed.  There is a one-time training to go over procedures, which takes about 30 minutes.

    • What: Proclaim readings during weekend and special Masses

    • When: Scheduled based on availability

    • Contact: Parish Office

  • Do you love flowers and plants? Do you like to decorate during the holidays? Do you a little extra time on your hands? If so, this ministry
    is for you as you can help as much as or as little as you want!   Volunteers are needed seasonally to help with watering and pruning the Church and campus flowers and plants. During the holidays (Easter and Christmas), we always need volunteers to help decorate the Church and Chapel.

    Time commitment as much as or as little as you want. Seasonal

    • What: Decorate church for liturgical seasons and feast days

    • When: Prep days before major celebrations

    • Contact: Parish Office, Head Coordinators Diana Malas, 937-47-1131

    • Advises the pastor on parish vision and planning

    • When: Quarterly meetings + occasional sub-committee sessions

    • Contact: Chair via Parish Office


  • This group is dedicated to growing food locally by using organic methods, in an effort to feed our families, parish, and the local hungry.  From June-September, the group operates a weekly Farmer's Market located at the parish.

    If you would like to become involved, please contact Kate Dungan

  • This ministry involves washing and ironing of the Church altar linens.
     
    Time commitment       approximately 2—3 weekends per year
    Head Coordinator: Parish Office  

  • The Sacristan (Mass Coordinator), who may be high school aged or older, are responsible for the physical background supporting the celebration of the Mass. The duties include setting up the altar area for Mass, and then cleaning the communion vessels after Mass.   Training will be provided with a one-time training session, which will be before or after the 11am Mass in the Lower Sacristy.

    Time commitment   approximately 20 minutes before Mass; and another 15 minutes after Mass, once a month, depending on above
    Head Coordinator   Diane DePascale, 937-293-7334

  • The ushers greet people in a welcoming manner as they arrive at the church. They also fill the bulletin bins and assist any parishioner that may need help.

    More specifically during the Mass, they select volunteers to bring up the gifts, perform the collection, and dismiss the pews for communion.  At times, they might be asked to do an attendance count.
    The goal would be to have four ushers on the church side and two ushers on the chapel side.

    Time commitment      10 minutes before Mass.  Duties are performed during the Mass you attend
    Head Coordinator  Mike Oswald , 937-643-3305

  • The Prayer Chain is a ministry for intercessory prayer. This wonderful ministry is coordinated by parishioners Lois Foley, Patty Lammert, and Monica Etienne. All three ladies are long- time members of the parish.

    The Prayer Chain works by calling or emailing your request to Lois, Patty or Monica. “It is all very confidential, so there is no need to be afraid”, says the coordinators. There are about 35 members who pray. These prayerful volunteers call in every Thursday to get the prayer requests. The requests stay on the list for 3 months, but can be extended if needed. Lois, Patty, and Monica love it when people follow up with them so they can see how prayer has interceded.

    On behalf of our parish community, we thank you for your prayers of healing and love!  To become a member of this ministry, or to put in a prayer request, contact the coordinators.

    Coordinator:  Patty Lammert

Liturgical Ministries at Ascension & Ascension Specific Ministries

  • What they do: Proclaim the Word of God (readings, psalms) during Mass.
    Get involved: If you enjoy public speaking and reflecting on Scripture, this is a meaningful way to engage.
    Contact: For questions, email the parish office at sgreen@ascensionkettering.org

  • What they do: Welcome parishioners, distribute bulletins, and assist with seating at Sunday and holy day Masses.
    Get involved: Ideal for friendly, outgoing people who love meeting fellow parishioners.
    Contact: For info, email sgreen@ascensionkettering.org

  • What they do: Assist clergy at the altar through tasks like carrying processional items and preparing the gifts.
    Get involved: Open to youth and adults who enjoy participating closely in the Mass.
    Contact: General inquiries to sgreen@ascensionkettering.org

  • What they do: Distribute the Body and Blood of Christ during Communion.
    Get involved: Requires a reverent attitude toward the Eucharist; training is provided.
    Contact: Email sgreen@ascensionkettering.org for orientation or details

    • Cantors
      Lead the congregation in sung prayer and psalms during Mass. Requires some vocal ability. Contact Dave Timpone at 937‑435‑5657 or davetimpone1@gmail.com to get involved.

    • Choir & Instrumentalists

      • Contemporary Ensemble (singers & instrumentalists, ages 10+) performs at 8:30 AM Mass (Sept–June, plus Easter/Christmas Eve). Led by Stephanie Klein (sklein@ascensionkettering.org, 402‑630‑4814).

      • Parish Family Choir for juniors, adults, & seniors singing at 11 AM Mass—no evening rehearsals required.

      • Seasonal Choirs: Christmas Eve, Holy Thursday, Easter Vigil—rehearsals begin 6–7 weeks prior. Audition/interview for singers and instrumentalists.

      • Hand Chimes (Tone Chime Ringers): An intergenerational bell ensemble for special liturgies; auditions required.

    • Funeral Choir/Resurrection Choir
      Provides music for funeral and memorial Masses. No prior experience needed—just a joyful heart and willingness to support grieving families. Coordinator for funerals: Margaret Wager at 937‑253‑5171 ext. 113 or mwager@ascensionkettering.org.

  • Helps run the sound system at the 11 AM Sunday Mass—balancing choir, musicians, and mic levels. Open to high school students and adults. No prior experience required; training is provided. Contact Stephanie Klein via the Worship Commission for next training session.

  • The Buildings & Grounds Committee provides oversight and guidance for the continuing maintenance and capital improvements of the parish campus. We review and update the 15-year Facilities Improvement Plan to identify, prioritize and provide cost estimates to repair/replace or update facilities as required. Parishioners with experience in construction trades or engineering would be a great addition to this group!  

    Ann Gross . . . . . 937-253-5171 (agross@ascensionkettering.org)

  • The purpose of the Education Fund is to provide a process for administering financial assistance to Ascension parishioners, employees, and students to: aid in the payment of tuition for elementary school, high school, and Religious Education participants; foster professional development; enhance educational programs; and meet any other need deemed appropriate within these guidelines. It is the intent of Ascension parish to assure that no child in the parish is denied the opportunity of religious education due to lack of funds. This committee meets regularly to review grant requests from teachers, catechists, and parishioners and Ascension tuition assistance to school and RE families.

    Ann Gross…….937-253-5171 (agross@ascensionkettering.org) 

  • Men and women, high school age and older, assist staff and those in attendance in many ways before, during, and after liturgies on Sundays and Holy Days. 

    Margaret Wager …………..937-253-5171 x113 (mwager@ascensionkettering.org)

  • The Prayer Chain is a group of men and women who are willing to pray for any person or intention at the request of a parish member. Anyone who can pray is welcome to join. Any parishioner may request prayers by emailing or calling the chain coordinator, the parish office.

    Kathy Gelm………. 937-293-2737 (kathleen4765@att.net) 

  • During the Liturgy of the Word (11:00 Mass) children in grades K-4 are invited to participate in Children's Liturgy of the Word at the 11:00 Mass. The children go in procession from the main assembly to the Witzman Center where they hear the Sunday readings, sing responses, and offer petitions, at their level of understanding. Volunteers are always welcome to assist, and after training, to help lead the Scripture reflections.

    Jane Fortener……….937-271-7129 (jane410er@gmail.com) 

    Marie Jenkins . . .. . . 937-431-0090 (jenkinsmarie65@gmail.com )

  • The Cantor is the “psalmist,” and also leads the assembly in song during various parts of the Mass. This ministry requires certain vocal abilities.

    Dave Timpone……….937-435-5657 (davetimpone1@gmail.com)

  • Members launder purificators and hand towels used at Mass.

    Lyn Springer………. 937-293-5928 (red95mc@gmail.com)

Outreach + Service

Available to all Mother of God Family of Parishes members.

  • St. Charles Borromeo Parish provides rent and utility assistance, food, furniture, clothing, and other life-sustaining goods and services for the poor living in Kettering and Centerville, OH. Volunteer case managers who are members of the St. Charles Borromeo Parish community perform home visits and provide needs-driven solutions to help break the cycle of poverty. Neighbor Outreach also provides high-quality sack lunches for the area St. Vincent de Paul Gateway Homeless Shelters each month.

    The volunteers work together to assemble and pack to provide needed food and nutrition to the homeless shelters. To learn more about this outreach, contact Elizabeth Lush 937-434-6081

  • The mission of the St. Charles Social Action Committee is to educate parishioners on social justice issues in our community, in our nation and in our world, and to organize and initiate actions to implement the social justice doctrines of the Catholic Church. The following are examples of activities: Lenten Almsgiving Project, Summer Lunch Program, Peace Pole, Prayer Ministry, Sustainability projects, work with other Dayton area parishes, Food Barrels, SPUR and LIGHT articles, “Thrive Together” dinners, Homicide Prayer Vigils and opportunities that arise.

    The Committee meets the first Wednesday of every month, except for July and August at St. Charles Borromeo.

    Want to be involved? Contact Elizabeth Lush 937-434-6081

  • Each parish has an active respect life group. Contact the individual parish office to get involved at your desired location.

  • St. Vincent’s Feed the Hungry Casseroles are delivered to the church on the second Sunday of each month, frozen, between 8-10:45 a.m. We are also collecting one-pound cans of vegetables, bags of apples, oranges, and carrot/celery sticks washed and cut up, ready to serve.

    These meals are delivered to St. Vincent Hotel for the Homeless. Please watch the SPUR for more updates on this project. No sign-up is required. Contact Elizabeth Lush 937-434-6081

    At Ascension, Our conference members are called Vincentians and we meet on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM at the parish office. Meetings are about one hour long and focus on the spirituality of our ministry and discussions of current and planned programs along with the disbursement of our financial help to those in need.

    New members are always welcome. We are always seeking additional volunteers. We have many capacities that help us serve our neighbors. We emphasize assisting others with dignity and promoting self-sufficiency whenever possible. We will provide training and plenty of time for you to discern whether the Spirit is calling you to our ministry.

Pastoral Care

Caring for our Parish community through difficult times and supporting our Parish community through joyous times.

  • In each of our parishes, our bereavement ministers make contact with families who have experienced a death.

    The committee helps to plan the funeral liturgy, assist during viewing hours and the funeral Mass, and provide additional support and help needed during those difficult days.

    To be involved at your desired parish, please contact the main office.

  • Our Director of Evangelization, Joe Ollier, directs the OCIA process and is assisted by a dedicated team of parishioners who are trained to coordinate the various areas of formation. Many parishioners volunteer in a number of ways to support this team. The following opportunities are available for parishioners who wish to be involved with the OCIA in some way:

    • Provide hospitality in the way of greetings and snacks for evening sessions and special event receptions

    • Assist with photography for various events

    • Organize and provide opportunities for service and justice education

    • Accompany candidates as a parish sponsor

    • Give a witness talk or presentation at an evening session

    • Facilitate Sunday scripture sharing

    Interested in becoming involved?Contact Joe Ollier, 937-253-5171, X112, Director of Evangelization.

  • Men, women, and high school students take communion to those unable to come to Mass due to age, illness, or disability.

    If you know of someone who would like to receive communion but cannot go to Mass, OR you would like to visit the homebound yourself, call your desired parish office.

  • This group meets on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Hospitality Room at St. Charles Borromeo. This group seeks to be alive and open to the Holy Spirit, allowing him to work through us in our everyday lives. Our focus is on the Scriptures supplemented by other spiritual sources and interspersed with song and prayer. Participation and sharing are encouraged. We are a small group and welcome new members. Contact Deacon Chris Jasek 937-401-0097 to be involved.

Build Community – Adult Faith Fomation

  • St. Charles

    Open to all men in our parishes. Small groups of men meet regularly to share life experiences and offer one another support. The regular meetings include reflections on Scripture, individual sharing and prayer for the needs of all families, the parish, and the community. 

    Takes place every other Tuesday 6:30-8:00AM in the Borromeo Room.

    Ascension

    The format varies to include prayer and topical discussions on men’s spirituality and general Catholic teaching including scripture, books, audio and video resources. Please join us to pray and share your faith journey with us.

    Meets on the 2nd Saturday of each month from 8:00-9:00 a.m . in the Witzman Center.

  • Open to all moms in the community. A relationship-building program for moms which includes fellowship, breakfast and childcare. Moms with smaller children are accompanied by mentor moms who support and encourage them through the challenges of family life in a small group setting. 

    Summer Connection May 28, June 25, July 30 in the St. Charles Borromeo Room. Just show up!

  • For women in the Kettering Catholic Community. A fitness class that stretches, strengthens and tones the body while refreshing the soul with prayer. In only one hour you will feel calmer, stronger, refreshed and renewed. 

    Located at St. Charles Church, Borromeo Room. Thursday mornings 8:15-9:15.

  • Open to anyone! The goal of this faith-sharing format is for individuals to grow comfortable and confident in sharing God’s powerful Word in all walks of life – to carry the Word out into the culture – to our families, friends, co-workers – to be part of the New Evangelization called for by Vatican II.

    Friday Mornings 9:15-11:00 in the Borromeo Room at St. Charles.

  • his is a monthly support group and faith formation program for adults with developmental disabilities and their families and friends.

    Gatherings are informal, welcoming and everyone enjoys each other’s company. We sing, talk about what is going on in our lives, relate Bible stories to our own experiences, make crafts and have snacks.

    Offered the 3rd Monday of each month 6:30-8:00 in the Borromeo Room at St. Charles.

  • Fall Session begins September 14.

    Open to all adults. Small groups meet at the Parish in different rooms for fellowship and community. Groups are led by two leaders and often involve a study around a particular topic.

  • Each parish has their own Knights of Columbus group and Ladies Auxiliary.

    Ascension Knights Website

    St. Charles Knights Website/Facebook

    St. Albert the Great Knights Website

  • This group of ladies periodically meet up to discuss various books, and bible studies.
    See the bulletin for the latest and most current studies.

    Kathy Zamonski is the coordinator.

  • St. Albert Ladies Social Association

    Offer personal enrichment experiences, including prayer and spiritual development,
    service, socializing, creative pursuits, and field trips.

    See bulletin for most current events!

    Coordinator:  Meg Draeger

    For all women of the Mother of God Family of Parishes - Chair-based Dance Fitness

    One activity SALSA does as a group is to be a part of Chair One Fitness presented by certified instructor Alice Ernst.  Alice discovered the benefits and joys of chair fitness after she suffered pain from an accident, and now teaches at area churches, libraries, and community centers.  A combination of light exercise and dance, Chair One Fitness is fun for all ages.  https://chaironefitness.com/

    Tuesday evening, September 26 from 7:00 - 7:45pm in Room 118 in the Witzman Center in the basement of Ascension Church.

    No special equipment is required.

    For any questions, contact Meg Draeger, St. Albert SALSA, at megdraeger@aol.com or 937-299-0259.

  • The mission of the Legion of Mary is the glory of God through the holiness of its members developed by prayer and personal service. This ministry meets weekly to pray and do Mary’s apostolic work.  Ministry includes visits to nursing homes and hosting a Catholic information booth at the Montgomery County Fair with other Legion of Mary groups. 

    New members are welcome. Meetings are Mondays at 6:45pm in Spirit Center at St. Albert the Great.

    Gloria and Ennis Dodd, Coordinators
    legionofmarystalbert@yahoo.com

  • Seniors Day Out Luncheon
    First Luncheon at St. Albert: Thursday, Oct. 12

    All parishioners age 60 and older are invited to enjoy a free lunch, fellowship, and entertainment at our Seniors Day Out Luncheons.

    When: After the noon Mass, on the 2nd Thursday of October, December, February, April, and June.
    Where: St. Albert the Great Parish Center.

    We hope you’ll join us for good food, fun, and friends!

    For questions or to reserve your spot, please contact Linda Bruns at 937-299-5200.

  • ue Graham ………. 937-299-1827 (sgraham@ascensionkettering.org)   

    All women of the parish over 18 years of age are welcome to participate in any or all of the Women's Guild activities that contribute to the parish socially and/or financially. Activities include the annual Holiday Bazaar, Mother-Daughter Banquet and Women of the Year awards, funeral meat trays, 25th and 50th Wedding Anniversary Brunch, and SCRIP sales. We usually meet the first Wednesday of each month (Sept. though April) at 7:00 p.m. in the Witzman Center.  Groups include:

    • HOLIDAY BAZAAR:

    • Sue Graham ………. 937-299-1827 (sgraham@ascensionkettering.org) -  The Harvest of Values Bazaar is an annual gathering of craft and small business vendors, held the 2nd Saturday in November. This is the Women's Guild's primary fundraiser for the year. Volunteers are needed in the main kitchen, including a new chairperson this year, making baked goods, donations for/working in our new Tot Shop, and making/selling craft items at the Women's Guild own table. Donations of baked goods, Tot Shop items, and crafts are extremely appreciated.  For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/events/813341497070845.

    • SCRIP PROGRAM: 

    • Judy McManus (937-299-0997) or Phyllis Hildebrand (937-435-7114) SCRIP can best be described as “substitute money.” It comes in the form of a gift card, but we encourage you to also use it as you make everyday purchases at gas stations, restaurants and other retailers. You pay FACE VALUE but the individual retailers give us profits between 3% and 13%. These monies are used for many items that benefit our parish. Many of the cards are available for immediate purchase while others need to be ordered and are received in less than one week. Call us to order or find an order form on the parish website under the GIVE tab. Drop it in the collection basket addressed to Women’s Guild. We are also present at monthly Coffee and Donuts.

  • IJoin us for Moms Who Lunch, a casual, recurring lunch meetup created especially for working and stay-at-home moms, busy schedules, or anyone looking for a midday pause to connect.

    Littles welcome. Come as you are.

    Whether you can stay the whole hour or just drop by for 20 minutes, your presence matters.

    We’ll gather to eat lunch, share, laugh, and just be—no prep, no pressure, just grace and friendship.

    We’ll learn as we go—these gatherings can evolve based on what works best for everyone. Whether it’s how we RSVP, the timing, or how often we meet, we’ll stay flexible and adjust as needed.

    See more info and RSVP here.