Altar Servers
Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist the Priest and / or Deacon in the celebration of Mass. Their duties include in part:
- Lead the procession at the beginning of Mass.
- Carry the Cross.
- Carry the processional candles.
- Hold the book for the celebrant when he is not at the altar.
- Present the bread, water & wine to the priest during the preparation of the gifts or assist him when he receives the gifts from the people.
- Wash the hands of the priest.
- Assist the priest celebrant and deacon as necessary.
- At times, carry the incense thurible.
- Ringing of bells that announce the celebrations.
- Servers should be seated in a place from which they can easily assist the priest celebrant and deacon.
- This ministry expects regular attendance at Mass.
Who Can Become an Altar Server?
- Men and women, boys and girls from the 5th grade and above.
- Must be mature enough to understand their responsibilities and to carry them out well and with appropriate reverence.
- Servers must have already received the Sacrament of Holy Communion and normally receive the Eucharist whenever they participate in the liturgy.
The Process
- Servers should receive proper instruction before they begin to function.
- The formation should include instruction on the Mass and its parts, their meaning, the various objects used in the liturgy (their names and use), and the various functions of the server during the Mass and other liturgical celebrations.
- Servers should also receive appropriate guidance on maintaining proper decorum and attire when serving Mass and other functions.
- Altar servers should wear an Alb and cincture when serving all celebrations.
- Once qualified, an Altar Server should train for several weeks with the Liturgical Minister.