Once again, we give thanks for all that God had done for us, and we sing “Alleluia!” to praise God for the paschal miracle in which we continue to rejoice.

But there is so much going on during the Triduum and Easter Sunday liturgies that we sometimes forget to thank the people who made those liturgies possible: the readers, the Eucharistic ministers, the music ministries, the sacristans, the catechists—all who have contributed to our beautiful liturgies.

But it’s not too late.

When I was actively working in a parish, I made it a point to write—yes, write, not just email—a note to every member of the music ministry, thanking them for their long hours of careful preparation and generous service to the community and to God. That’s probably not realistic for those with large choirs and ensembles, but a nice e-card will work, too.

Pastors, it’s not too late to recognize those whose hard work smooths the way for effective presiding. It’s not a bad idea to get a list of names for every liturgical and catechetical ministry to print in the bulletin or as an insert; and it’s also a good idea to publicly thank them, perhaps during the announcements.

I have known musicians who have been told on Easter Monday that their services are no longer required. This is manipulative, unjust, and un-Christian. In this season of rebirth, let us pray for all who have been so cavalierly treated, that they may find renewed faith in service to a more appreciative community.