What Are the Functions of the Altar Boys in the Catholic Doctrine?
Catholicism is the largest Christian religion worldwide. Altar servers are lay assistants to the priest in conducting the Mass, and it is considered a position of honor. Young boys used to serve this function and were called "altar boys," however now girls can also serve if allowed by the diocese. Altar servers must have received their first communion and are commissioned by the parish priest to perform this role. The parish youth ministry or religious education staff will usually train altar servers in their duties. Three to six altar servers assist during Mass and perform roles as assigned.
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Clothing
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Altar servers must wear appropriate clothing. The traditional white garment worn by servers is called an alb, which goes over your street clothes. Your clothes are visible under an alb, so you should wear clothing appropriate for church, such as a dress shirt and slacks. Dress shoes are preferable to tennis shoes or sandals.
Prepare for Mass
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Altar servers must arrive early to prepare for the Mass. Arrive 15 minutes early; sign in and put on your alb and cincture, which goes around your waist. Rinse out with water the cruets that will be used during the service. Fill one cruet with wine and another cruet with plain water. Place the cruets, chalice, water bowl and towel on the credence table. Light the candles in the sanctuary five minutes before Mass begins.
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During the Mass
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The altar server assists the priest during the Mass and must sit near the tabernacle. Follow the procession into the sanctuary at the beginning of the Mass, carrying any materials assigned to you, such as candles. Bow or genuflect at the altar before taking your seat. During the singing of the Gloria, an altar server must take a book called a sacramentary to the priest, from which he will read. Altar servers should follow their assigned roles during the consecration of the Eucharist, which may include bringing the water or wine to the priest. An altar server will hold the sacramentary for the priest before he dismisses the parish.
After the Mass
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After the Mass, process out of the sanctuary as assigned. Altar servers should extinguish candles using the appropriate tools. Take off the alb and any other ceremonial garments and hang them up neatly. Clean up any messes that you made during preparation for Mass.
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References
- Photo Credit roman catholic cathedral christmas interrior image by fotosergio from Fotolia.com
