How to Become an Altar Boy at a Latin Mass

As the Traditional Catholic Latin Mass regains popularity around the world, there is a need for traditional altar boys once more. Training for traditional altar boys is more involved than for non- traditional altar boys. Follow these steps to become a traditional altar boy.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Contact the local parish priest or pastor to learn age and training requirements for traditional altar boys. In many parishes, traditional altar boys must be at least 8.
2. Attend all scheduled traditional altar boy training sessions. It is important to learn all the material presented in order to serve as a traditional altar boy.
3. Study the Latin responses for the Mass as said by traditional altar boys. Parts of the mass are a dialog between priests and servers. Practice pronunciation by listening online to the responses (see Resources below).
4. Learn the different positions each traditional altar boy takes while serving mass. Different positions have their own responsibilities, such as bringing the priest water so he can wash of his hands, or ringing the bells at consecration.
5. Ask for guidance when the directions are unclear or questions arise. Learning the responsibilities of a traditional altar boy can be complicated. Learn as much as you can before serving your first mass.
6. Arrive early for each mass. You may need to help prepare the sanctuary for Mass.

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