ALTAR SERVERS
They may
serve in my sanctuary. . . and
stand before the people and serve them. (Ezechiel 44:11)
The
ministry of Altar Server, sometimes called an acolyte, is among the
earliest of all liturgical roles. Only the ministries of the presider
(priest) and deacon have a longer history and a place closer to the altar
during the celebration of the Eucharist.
In
the early Church, virtually all Altar Servers were adult men, usually men
preparing to become deacons and priests. Until the Second Vatican Council,
assisting as a Server was confined to males. Since that time, however, the
bishops in most countries have recognized the importance of including
women in liturgical worship and the Church has welcomed girls to ministry
as Altar Servers.
At
Our Lady of Refuge, all beginning Servers are trained by our parish Altar
Server coordinator, are commissioned at a special ceremony, and assist
during an apprentice year as Servers at weekday Masses. Upon completion of
their apprentice year, Servers receive additional training which qualifies
them to assist at our Sunday and holy day liturgies.
Any
Catholic child in our parish, fourth grade and older, is welcome to
participate in our Altar Servers' program. We are blessed to have nearly
100 young people presently ministering as either apprentice or senior
Servers at Our Lady of Refuge. Apprentices serve approximately four times
each month on weekdays and Saturdays; experienced Servers assist
approximately twice each month at weekend liturgies.
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If
you are interested in learning more about this ministry,
please
contact:
(562)
597-3102
E-Mail:
Liturgy
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Links
For more information on the ministry of Altar Servers,
click on the following links:
MINISTRY GROUPS
