Altar Servers

Scripture

Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others, knowing that you will receive from the Lord the due payment of the inheritance; be servants of the Lord Christ. (Colossians 3:23-24)

Mission Statement

Altar Servers have a place of prominence and distinction in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. They assist the priest as he leads God's people in this great act of worship of God, our Father.

Ministry Description

The role of altar servers is to bring the assembly to a fuller understanding of the liturgy and so to a greater love for God. They do this through the actions they perform and by the way in which they perform them. Their behavior can be a sign of their faith and their love for God and for God's people.

On August 12, 2001, Pope John Paul II addressed a gathering of young altar servers in Rome and in part said,

"The altar server occupies a privileged place in the liturgical celebration. The altar server presents himself to a community and experiences firsthand that Jesus Christ is present and active in every liturgical act. Jesus is present when the community comes together to pray and render praise to God. Jesus is present in the Word of sacred Scripture.

Jesus is present above all in the Eucharist under the signs and bread and wine. He acts through the priest who, in the person of Christ, celebrates the holy Mass and administers the sacraments.

Therefore, in the liturgy, you are much more than simple 'helpers of the parish priest'. Above all, you are servers of Jesus Christ, of the eternal High Priest. Thus, you, altar servers, are called in particular to be young friends of Jesus. Be determined to go deeper and to cultivate this friendship with Him. You will discover that in Jesus you have found a true friend for life."
 

Activities

• Servers carry the cross, the processional candles, hold books of prayers for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and censer, present the bread, wine and water 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.
• Servers receive proper formation before they begin to function. The formation includes instruction on the Mass and its parts and 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 also receive appropriate guidance on maintaining proper decorum and attire when serving Mass and other functions.

Events

Altar Servers participate in the liturgy during Sunday and special occasion Masses such as weddings and funerals.

Volunteer/Service Opportunities

• Alb washing
• Telephone reminders and outreach
• Picnics and appreciation functions
• Server check-in before Masses