Altar Servers/Altar Server Training

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A Catholic altar ministry is a liturgical service performed by lay assistants, commonly known as altar servers or acolytes, who assist the priest and deacon during Mass and other ceremonies. The ministry enhances the reverence of the celebration and facilitates worship for the entire congregation. 

Altar server description

  • Role: An altar server assists at the altar by performing specific tasks throughout the Mass. It is a privileged ministry that fosters a deeper connection to the liturgy and is open to both children and adults who have received their First Communion.
  • Core responsibilities:
    • Lead the opening and closing processions by carrying the processional cross and candles.
    • Hold the Roman Missal (prayer book) for the priest when he is not at the altar.
    • Assist the priest in receiving the offertory gifts of bread and wine.
    • Assist in the ritual washing of the priest’s hands (lavabo).
    • Ring the altar bells during the consecration to draw the congregation’s attention to the most sacred moments of the Mass.
    • Assist with incense and the censer during special celebrations.
    • Prepare and clear the altar before and after Mass.
  • Key virtues: Altar servers are expected to carry out their duties with discipline, decorum, and piety.
    • Discipline requires them to be attentive, punctual, and obedient to the clergy and liturgy coordinators.
    • Decorum means carrying out all actions with proper dignity, reverence, and prayerful posture, reflecting the holiness of the service.
    • Piety is the spiritual attitude of serving God with love and devotion, recognizing the deep significance of their role. 

Sacristan description

  • Role: A sacristan is an adult minister who works primarily behind the scenes to prepare the church and altar for the celebration of the Eucharist and other liturgies.
  • Core responsibilities:
    • Preparation: Ensure all necessary items—such as the vestments, sacred vessels (chalice, ciborium, paten), linens, liturgical books, bread, wine, and water—are available and in their proper places.
    • Coordination: Confirm that all other liturgical ministers, including lectors and altar servers, are present and ready.
    • Ceremony support: Assist the priest and deacon as needed with preparing for Mass and other sacraments.
    • Care and maintenance: Maintain the sacristy and sacred items, which may include arranging altar cloths and decorations, ensuring the sanctuary lamp is lit, and cleaning vessels after Mass.
  • Essential qualities: The role requires an adult Catholic with a deep understanding of the liturgy, attention to detail, and a responsible, dependable nature. 

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