MANUAL FOR ALTAR SERVERS

Transcription

1 MANUAL FOR ALTAR SERVERS

2 Table of Contents Introduction... 1 Altar Server s Prayers for Before and After Mass... 2 Pope Saint John Paul II s Message to Altar Servers... 3 General Requirements... 5 Who May Serve... 5 Proper Dress... 5 Conduct/Demeanor... 6 General Rules, Guidelines, and Responsibilities... 6 The Mass... 6 The Order of Mass... 7 The Sanctuary... 9 The Books used in the Mass The Ministers at Mass Explanation of Vestments Sacred Vessels, Linens, and Other Items Postures at Mass Preparation Before Mass Instructions for Serving at Mass Before Mass Entrance Procession Introductory Rites: Liturgy of the Word Collection, Preparation of the Altar, and Preparation of the Gifts Eucharistic Prayer Communion Rite Prayer after Communion Announcements, Concluding Rites, and Procession Out After Mass Liturgical Colors A Note of Thanks Revision: July 2016

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4 Introduction St. Edward parish is deeply grateful for your acceptance and commitment to be altar servers. Your service and dedication are important parts of our parish life. The place of the altar server in liturgical celebrations remains one of prominence and distinction. As you are destined in a special way for the service of the altar, you should learn all matters concerning liturgical worship and strive to grasp their inner spiritual meaning. The altar server retains a genuine and vital role in the liturgical assembly. Your role, through your actions and conduct, is to bring the assembly to a fuller understanding of the liturgy and a greater love for God. You have a place of honor at Mass, because you assist the priest in many ways. Your behavior and accomplishment are signs of your faith and your love for God and God s people. Altar servers are chosen from the faithful who display a desire to participate in a more intimate way during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It is a great privilege to approach the altar as we prepare for our loving Savior, Jesus Christ, to become truly present, body, blood, soul and divinity. In the presence of Our King it is both wise and necessary for you to perform all assigned duties with attention, dignity and reverence. Also keep in mind to attend to every action of the Divine Liturgy as a team, all serving the Sacred Mass in the same manner and style as your companion altar servers. As you participate as instructed, you will enter into a fuller participation in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass while assisting the priests. Therefore, it is imperative that all servers do their assigned tasks in the prescribed form and manner. This manual is designed to give you direction for our parish masses and to be a guide to help you as you assist the priests at the Altar of God. 1

5 Altar Server s Prayers for Before and After Mass Altar Server s Prayer Oh Jesus, my King and Lord, by the grace of the heavenly Father and the power of the Holy Spirit, guide me in all righteousness as I serve You today at the Altar so I may be always worthy of Your presence. If I happen to make an error, may it be a lesson so my service will be perfect tomorrow. Jesus, I love you with all my heart. Amen. Before Mass Open my mouth, O Lord, to bless Your Holy Name. Cleanse my heart from all evil and distracting thoughts. Enlighten my understanding and inflame my will that I may serve worthily at Your Holy Altar. O Mary, Mother of Christ, obtain for me the most important grace of knowing my vocation in life. Grant me a true spirit of faith and humble obedience so that I may ever behold the priest as a representative of God and willingly follow him in the Way, the Truth, and the Life of Christ. Amen. After Mass O Lord, Jesus Christ, Eternal High Priest, I thank you for the privilege of having served at the holy altar of Your Sacrifice. Now, as I put aside the garments of that service, I ask that I may at all times think of you. May I ever seek you and find you; May I always follow you; May your priestly spirit be in my heart, and Your Holy Name on my lips; and to Your praise and glory may every work of mine be done. Ever ready in Your service, may I always know and do Your will in all things, and, by Your grace, persevere unto the end. Amen. 2

6 Pope Saint John Paul II s Message to Altar Servers The Jubilee for Altar Servers during the Millennium Year (Address at the General Audience, August 1, 2001, the 1,000th of Pope John Paul II s pontificate) Dear Brothers and Sisters! Dear Young People! Today St. Peter's Square is the square of youth. About a year ago, at the heart of the Great Jubilee 2000, youths from all over the world found solicitous welcome here for the celebration of World Youth Day. Today this Square, which hosts the 1,000th general audience since divine Providence called me to be a Successor to the Apostle Peter, receives the thousands of boys and girls, who have come from all over Europe on pilgrimage to the tomb of the Prince of the Apostles. Dear altar servers! Yesterday you crossed St. Peter's Square in a long procession to be near the basilica's altar of Confession. By so doing, you prolonged in some way the path that the youth of the world began in the Holy Year. The motto of your pilgrimage to the Eternal City, "Toward a New World," is a sign of your willingness to take your Christian vocation seriously. I greet you affectionately, dear young people, and I am happy that this meeting has taken place. In particular, I thank Auxiliary Bishop Martin Gachter, president of Coetus Internationalis Ministrantium, who has spoken such cordial words to me on your behalf. With special joy I address the altar servers of German-speaking countries, who numerically constitute the largest group. It is beautiful that so many young Christians have come from Germany! Your commitment to the altar is not only a duty, but a great honor, a genuine holy service. In connection with this service, I wish to propose some reflections to you. The altar server's clothing is very special. It recalls the garment that each one puts on when he is welcomed in Jesus Christ in the community. I am referring to the baptismal gown, whose profound meaning Saint Paul clarifies: "For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ" (Galatians 3:27). Even if you, dear altar servers, can no longer fit into your baptismal gown, you have put on the clothing of altar servers. Yes, baptism is the point of departure of your "authentic liturgical service," which places you next to your bishops, priests and deacons (see Sacrosanctum Concilium, No. 29). The altar server occupies a privileged place in the liturgical celebration. He who serves at Mass, presents himself to a community. He 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 of 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, 3

7 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. The altar server often has a candlestick in his hand. How can one not think of that which Jesus says in the Sermon on the Mount: "You are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14). Your service cannot be limited to the inside of a church. It must shine in everyday life: in school, in the family, and in different realms of society. Because, whoever wishes to serve Jesus Christ inside a church must be his witness everywhere. Dear young people! Your contemporaries wait for the real "light of the world" (see John 1:9). Do not hold your candlestick only inside a church, but carry the light of the Gospel to all those who are in darkness and are living through a difficult time in their life. I have spoken of friendship with Jesus. How happy I would be if something more sprang from this friendship! How beautiful it would be if some of you were to discover a vocation to the priesthood! Jesus Christ has urgent need of youths who will be at his disposition with generosity and no reservations. Moreover, might not the Lord also call one or two of you girls to embrace the consecrated life to serve the Church and the brothers and sisters? Even for those who wish to be united in marriage, the service of altar servers teaches that a real union must always include readiness for reciprocal and free service. 4

8 General Requirements Who May Serve It is a great privilege to serve at the Altar of our God and therefore Servers are chosen from those who display a desire for a more intimate union with our Lord and God, Jesus Christ. Our loving Savior becomes present on the Altar, just as He was at the Last Supper and Calvary. Accordingly, Servers have a solemn responsibility to do their assigned duties with dignity and reverence. At St. Edward, altar servers must be young men who have received their first communion. Servers are encouraged to participate through their senior year of high school, and are welcome to return to assist during college breaks. All candidates must have attended altar server training and have the commitment and ability to perform this role with reverence. Proper Dress Altar Servers show respect for the Mass they attend by wearing proper attire. You should look dressed up in your Sunday best. Your knees, shoulders, and everything in between must be covered. Clothing Altar servers must wear dark (preferably black) dress pants or slacks. T- Shirts, shorts, and jeans are not appropriate attire for serving at the altar. Footwear Black or brown dress Shoes must be worn to serve. All footwear should look neat, presentable and dressy. Sneakers, sandals, and athletic socks are not appropriate for serving at the altar. Jewelry Do not wear anything that will make noise and/or will be distracting, or that will cause you to have problems serving. Hair Hair should be neat, trimmed, and appropriate. Hair color, if any, must be minimal and present a natural and wholesome appearance. Look neat, presentable, and wholesome when you serve. Vestments Altar servers at St. Edward wear a black cassock with white surplice. A properly fitting cassock will come to the top of the server s shoes. The surplice length should go to approximately the server s waist. If you are in doubt about the size and fit of your vestments, ask the priest or deacon of the Mass for assistance. 5

9 Conduct/Demeanor Altar servers represent the Church to some degree at all times, and, therefore, their conduct and demeanor should be respectful. Servers must realize that their behavior and conduct set an example to others both inside and outside of the church. A server must want to serve at the Altar of God. Their decision to serve, with parental support, is always the main motivating factor. A reluctant or disinterested server is a distraction during the Mass. Altar servers must attend every Mass they are scheduled. The altar servers are responsible for arranging their replacements when needed. General Rules, Guidelines, and Responsibilities Altar Servers should not leave the sanctuary after the start of Mass for any reason except bathroom emergencies, illness, or when directed to do so by the priest. Serve at every Mass for which you are scheduled or make arrangements to have someone cover the Mass. It is the server s responsibility to find substitutes. Repeated absences from assigned Masses without arranging substitutes may result in the server being removed from regularly scheduled service. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the Mass begins. Make sure the candles are lit and bread, wine, water, towels, bowl, Missal, Lectionary, and anything else needed for Mass is in its proper place. Perform the duties assigned during the Mass in the prescribed orderly manner. Maintain a prayerful demeanor during all times in the Sacristy and a prayerful posture during Mass. Remember you are in front of the congregation, and you can be distracting if you fidget. After the Mass, return to the Sanctuary, Sacristy, and preparation areas to make sure that everything is set up for the next Mass. Be quiet and respectful when on the Altar; you are role models. Be attentive and respond immediately when the priest asks for help. During Mass, pay attention to the clergy and lead altar server for cues and directions. If something comes up during Mass, you may find that you are tasked with helping to fix something that has gone wrong. Make sure that your cassock and surplice are returned the way you found them. If a cassock or surplice need mending or cleaning, please bring to the attention of the priest after Mass. Pay Attention to the Mass and the clergy. Remember, you are an integral part of the Mass. The community is depending on you to help to make sure the Mass can be celebrated in a smooth and reverent manner The Mass For Catholics, nothing is more important than the Mass. It is the heart and soul of our worship of God. It is the celebration that gives us the strength we need to live a Christian 6

10 life. Because of its importance, the Church places a serious obligation on all of its members to take part in the Mass each Sunday and Holy Day. First and foremost, the Mass is a sacrifice. Jesus offered His Father a sacrifice: Himself. Jesus promised us that when we eat this bread and drink this cup He would continue His great sacrifice until He comes again. The Mass is a sacred meal called the Eucharist (from Greek meaning thanksgiving ). In the Mass, we give thanks for all that God has done for us, and we all eat the same food the bread of life and the cup of eternal salvation. The Mass is a memorial of the Last Supper when Jesus instituted the Eucharist and told His followers Do this in the memory of me. The way in which the Mass is celebrated has developed over two thousand years. Despite its development, two elements have always been the same: the Liturgy of the Word and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The following is the basic outline of the Order of Mass, the Sanctuary, the Books used at Mass, and the Ministers at Mass all of which you should learn well to get a basic understanding of the Mass as the instructions to serving the Mass unfold. The Order of Mass Introductory Rites 1. Entrance Procession 2. Greeting 3. Penitential Act or Rite of Blessing and Sprinkling Holy Water. The latter is commonly celebrated during the Easter Season, but may also be used at other times, when used, the Penitential Act is omitted. 4. Gloria. This ancient hymn of praise is used on all Sundays and Solemnities outside of Advent and Lent 5. Opening Prayer (also referred to as the Collect ) Liturgy of the Word 1. First Reading: usually from the Old testament of the Bible 2. Responsorial Psalm: a portion of a psalm, usually sung by a psalmist, in response to the first reading 3. Second Reading: from the New Testament of the Bible (This is a second reading on Sundays and Solemnities, but not for most weekdays) 4. Alleluia / Gospel Acclamation: a small verse of Scripture or hymn 5. Gospel: This is always proclaimed by only the Bishop, a priest, or a deacon 6. Homily: The bishop, priest, or deacon then speaks to the people on that day s scriptures, on the feast or special occasion being celebrated, or on any liturgical text from the Mass 7

11 7. Profession of Faith: On Sundays and solemnities, the Nicene Creed is normally recited by everyone after the homily. The Apostles Creed may be used instead, especially in celebrations of Masses with children or during the Easter season. 8. General Intercessions (Prayer of the Faithful or Universal Prayer) consisting of an introduction by the celebrant, reading of the petitions by a deacon or lector, and a concluding prayer by the celebrant. Liturgy of the Eucharist 9. Presentation of the Gifts / Preparation of the Altar 10. Prayer over the Gifts 11. Sanctus (Holy, Holy, Holy) 12. Eucharistic Prayer: There are four regular Eucharistic Prayers, two other Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Reconciliation, three Eucharistic Prayers for Masses with Children, and or four recently approved Eucharistic Prayers for Various Needs and Occasions. Each prayer has a similar structure. 13. Memorial Acclamation: One of three different options Communion Rite 14. The Lord s Prayer (Our Father) 15. Sign of Peace 16. Communion 17. Prayer after Communion Concluding Rites 18. Greeting 19. Blessing 20. Dismissal 21. Recessional and Closing Song 8

12 The Sanctuary The Sanctuary is the space at the front of the church within which most of the action of the Mass takes place. The word means holy place. It is often set apart from the rest of the church by being slightly elevated. There are many things in the sanctuary with which you should be familiar. Our Sanctuary at St. Edward Presider s and Deacon s Chairs Main Altar Ambo Main Altar This is the large, high table located in the middle of our sanctuary. Most of the action of the Liturgy of the Eucharist takes place on the main altar. In ancient times, the 9

13 altar was the place where a sacrifice was offered to God; therefore, it is at the Altar where the sacrifice of the Mass takes place. Ambo (Pulpit/Lectern) This is the place from which the sacred readings and homily are given. Most of the action of the Liturgy of the Word takes place at the Ambo. It is the special place set aside for Sacred Scripture. Presider s and Deacon s Chairs These are the chairs in the sanctuary at which the priest and deacon(s) sit during certain parts of the Mass. Credence Table This is the small table near the altar that holds the items to be used in the Mass until they are needed at the altar. It is the responsibility of the altar servers to make sure that everything that will be needed for the Mass is on the credence table before Mass begins. The Books used in the Mass Missal The Missal is the main book used in the Mass. It contains all of the prayers said by the priest as part of celebrating the Mass including the opening prayer, prayers over the gifts, Eucharistic Prayers, and prayers after Communion. Lectionary The Lectionary includes the readings for Mass. The readings for Sunday Masses are divided into a cycle that repeats every three years. The readings for daily Masses are divided into a two-year cycle. Book of Gospels Christians hold the Gospels with special respect as the words and actions of the Lord. That s why we stand for the proclamation of the Gospel in Mass. The Book of the Gospels is a large ornate book that contains the Gospel readings for Sunday Masses. It is carried in procession at the beginning of Sunday Mass. Missalette These are small Mass books for the congregation to follow along in the Mass. These should never be used at the Altar as substitutes for the proper books. Book of Blessings Some special Masses, for example, Mother s Day and Father s Day, will include a special blessing at the end of Mass. These blessings are found in the Book of Blessings. For Masses with these special blessings, this book will need to be held by a server in the same way as the Missal is held for the priest at the Opening Prayer. The Ministers at Mass It takes quite a few people to celebrate Mass well. To minister means to serve. All of these people serve the parish and help the congregation to worship at mass. Priest Celebrant This is the priest who presides over the celebration of Mass. Sometimes, at what is called a concelebrated Mass, there may be more than one priest. But the one who presides is the one who you should be most concerned about. Mostly, your job is to help him. 10

14 Deacon When present, the deacon usually proclaims the Gospel, prepares the gifts for Eucharist, helps to distribute Communion, and gives direction to the people. He may also preach the homily. Altar Servers You and what this manual is about. Reader or Lector This is the person(s) who read the first two readings, and often the petitions in the Prayer of the Faithful, and the announcements at the end of Mass. Psalmist Sings the Responsorial psalm. This can be the cantor or another singer. In some cases, the psalmist or reader may also recite the responsorial psalm. Cantor This person leads the hymns and acclamations, and may also sing the responsorial psalm. Ushers These people greet the community as they arrive for Mass, take up the collection(s), keep communion lines orderly, and distribute the bulletins after Mass. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion These ministers assist at Communion. Sacristan This person usually works before Mass, making sure that everything thatis needed is where it belongs. At times, you will be asked to assist in these duties. Music Director This person is in charge of all the music in the parish. Usually, this person is also the choir director or the organist. Choir Members and Musicians These people sing and play the various instruments that accompany the music for the Mass. 11

15 Explanation of Vestments Amice Some Albs are designed with wider openings for the head and require an additional cloth to cover the collar underneath. This is achieved with an amice, a linen rectangle with ties on each end. Alb The alb is a long cloth robe reaching to the feet used to cover the priest s clothing and body. It represents Baptism. The vesting prayer is: Make me white, O Lord, and cleanse my heart; that being made white in the Blood of the Lamb I may deserve an eternal reward. History: The alb, or tunic, was worn in ancient times by all who enjoyed any dignity. It recalls for us the garment with which Herod clothed Our Lord, and signifies the purity of conscience demanded of God s priests. 12

16 Cincture The cincture, or girdle, is a cord fastened about the waist to confine the alb and hold everything in place. It represents Purity. The vesting prayer is: Gird me, O Lord, with the cincture of purity, and quench in my heart the fire of concupiscence, that the virtue of continence and chastity may abide in me. History: Walking and active exertion made it necessary for one to gird up a long garment like the alb. Hence the cincture was an essential article of dress. We think of the cord that bound Our Lord to the pillar when He was being scourged. It further symbolizes modesty, and also readiness for hard work in God s service. Stole The stole is a long narrow strip in the liturgical color and is used to identify the person a bishop, priest or deacon. It represents the power the priest has by virtue of ordination. It has a cross sewn in the middle and the priest kisses the middle cross and places the stole upon his neck. Deacons wear it over one shoulder. The vesting prayer is: Restore to me, O Lord, the state of immortality which I lost through the sin of my first parents and, although unworthy to approach Thy Sacred Mysteries, may I deserve nevertheless eternal joy. History: A kind of neck-piece or kerchief, the stole was a part of the dress of the upper classes. The stole is of Orders. As such, it is also used outside the Mass whenever this power is used (in the sacrament of Penance, when giving blessings in a more solemn fashion, when handling the Eucharist, in the administration of other sacraments, etc.). Worn as it is over the shoulders, it reminds us of the cross Our Lord carried, and of the yoke of Christ; the priest s burden is a heavy one, which Christ nevertheless makes sweet. 13

17 Chasuble The chasuble is the outer and chief vestment of the priest. Its name means, little house and it represents the overshadowing power of Christ. It is exclusively reserved to the priest. The vesting prayer is: "O Lord, Who has said, My yoke is sweet and My burden light, grant that I may so carry it as to merit Thy grace. History: Imagine a large circular cloth with a hole cut in the center for the head. This will help one to visualize the ancient chasuble, which was an immense cloak which went over the head and completely enveloped the body. When it was necessary to use the hands, the garment had to be folded up on each side over the arms. Because of its inconvenience (for two assistants were needed to manipulate it), the vestment was gradually cut and altered until it now has its present shape. It is usually ornamented on the back, and sometimes on the front of the garment. We occasionally see chasubles made in the Gothic or Mediaeval style. These are more ample, and drape over the shoulders down to the wrists. The cross on such chasubles has the shape of the letter Y, the top arms of which extend over the shoulders towards the front. It makes us think of the purple cloak worn by Our Lord when He stood before Pilate. This ample garment is an emblem of charity. The ordaining bishop gives it to the new priest, saying: Receive the priestly garment, for the Lord is Powerful to increase in you love and perfection. 14

18 Dalmatic The dalmatic is the outer vestment of the deacon. It is a long wide-sleeved tunic worn over the alb and stole. History: The dalmatic was taken from a garment of the same name, which originated, to judge from the designation, in Dalmatia, and which came into common use at Rome probably in the course of the second century. It was part of the clothing of the higher classes; consequently it is not surprising that it was taken into ecclesiastical use and afterwards became a liturgical vestment. The earliest symbolical interpretations of the dalmatic regarded it as symbolical of the sufferings of Christ and said that the vestment admonished the servant of the altar to offer himself as an acceptable sacrifice to God. Cassock The cassock was the everyday garment of priests for a long time. The cassock derives historically from the tunic that in ancient Rome was worn underneath the toga and the chiton that was worn beneath the himation in ancient Greece. In religious services, it has traditionally been worn underneath vestments, such as the alb. Here at St. Edward, the cassock is worn as the bottom vestment for our altar servers. 15

19 Surplice A surplice is a liturgical vestment of the Western Christian Church. The surplice is in the form of a tunic of white linen or cotton fabric with wide or moderately wide sleeves. The surplice reaches to the knees for most clergy. Altar servers, including those at St. Edward, frequently wear somewhat shorter surplices that reach only to a little below the waist or hips. It was originally a long garment with open sleeves reaching nearly to the ground. The current surplice developed as a shorter version of the alb. Cope The cope is a liturgical vestment, more precisely a long mantle or cloak, open in front and fastened at the breast with a band or clasp. It may be of any liturgical colour. It is most often worn by the priest or deacon for Eucharistic Exposition and Benediction. It can also be worn for more solemn liturgies when they take place outside Mass, for example, baptisms, weddings, or funerals. 16

20 Humeral Veil The humeral veil consists of a piece of cloth about 10 feet long and 3 feet wide draped over the shoulders and down the front. It is normally made of silk or cloth of gold. At the ends there are sometimes pockets in the back for hands to go into so that the wearer can hold items without touching them with the hands.[1] The humeral veil is most often seen during the liturgy of Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. When priests or deacons bless the people with the monstrance, they cover their hands with the ends of the veil so that their hands do not touch the monstrance as a mark of respect for the sacred vessel and as an indication that it is Jesus present in the Eucharistic species who blesses the people and not the minister. You won t usually encounter these, but if the bishop visits our parish, you may see a few vestments that are used only by him. Zucchetto Mitre Crozier 17

21 Sacred Vessels, Linens, and Other Items Chalice The chalice is the most obvious sacred vessel in the Mass. It holds the wine mixed with water that, at the consecration, will become the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Chalices are made of gold or other precious materials, and they are often beautifully designed and ornamented. Communion Cups These are simpler chalices that hold the blood of Christ to be distributed to the congregation at communion. Frequently, daily Masses distribute communion only under one species, the host, so these are not used. Paten This is a small shallow gold (or other precious material) disk that holds the priest s host before the Mass and during the Eucharistic prayer. Sometimes, if many more hosts are to be consecrated, the paten may be omitted in favor of a ciborium to hold all of the hosts with the larger priest s host on top. 18

22 Ciborium The ciborium is a bowl or cup that usually comes with a cover to hold hosts that are to be consecrated before Mass or consecrated hosts in the tabernacle after Mass. It may or may not have a stem like the one in the picture. Monstrance The monstrance is used to expose the Blessed Sacrament, Jesus Christ in sacramental form, for public worship. It is often shaped as either a cross or cathedral (as the one pictured) with a glass circle in the middle into which the host is placed in a luna. The Monstrance is also used in Eucharistic processions. Luna The luna is a small holder for the host to be placed into a monstrance. It may encase the host entirely in glass with a gold frame or simply be a base into which the host is inserted. 19

23 Cruets These are the small glass pitchers for the water and wine to be used for consecration in the Mass. Aspergillum and Aspersorium An aspergillum is a liturgical implement used to sprinkle holy water. It comes in two common forms: a brush that is dipped in the water and shaken, and a silver ball on a stick. Some have sponges or internal reservoirs that dispense holy water when shaken, while others must periodically be dipped in an aspersorium (holy water bucket). Thurible or Censer A thurible is a vessel suspended by chains and used for burning incense at solemn Mass, Vespers, Benediction, processions, and other important offices of the Church. It usually consists of a cup, or bowl, which rests on a firm base and is provided with a hollow movable pan for holding ignited charcoal, a lid or covering, and one or more chains about three feet in length. To carry the thurible the chains are grasped in the hand just under the disc. While walking, it should be kept 6-8 inches above the ground and gently swung. Bells Bells have always been a part of the Liturgy. A small set of bells is placed near where the altar servers remain for the Eucharistic Prayer. The bells are rung at the epiclesis and the elevation of the host and the chalice at the consecration to invite the faithful to the act of adoration. A bell is often found near the door of the Church or the sacristy to call the congregation to stand for the beginning of the Liturgy. 20

24 Paschal Candle The Paschal candle is a large decorated candle that is blessed on Holy Saturday each year. The candle is first ornamented with five grains of incense and then lighted with the newly blessed fire. It is an important liturgical symbol used through the Easter Season as well as baptisms and funerals. Baptismal Font A basin or vase, serving as a receptacle for baptismal water in which the candidate for baptism is immersed, or over which he is washed, in the ceremony of Christian initiation. In the Church's present practice it is ordinarily a decorative stone basin, though metal or wood are used; supported on a pedestal or columns at a convenient height for receiving the water which is poured over the head of the person baptized, a form which marks the term of a development graphically illustrating the history of the mode of conferring baptism. Pall The pall is a small square of stiffened linen (or using a piece of plastic or cardboard to stiffen it) ornamented with a cross, which is laid on the chalice to protect its contents from flies or dust. This is especially important after the consecration when the chalice contains the blood of Christ. Purificator The purificator is a rectangular piece of linen usually folded twice lengthwise and laid across the top of the chalice. It is used for wiping and drying the chalice, the paten, or other vessels. 21

25 Corporal The corporal (from Latin corpus, body) is a square white linen cloth upon which the Sacred Host and chalice are placed during the celebration of Mass. The corporal has been in use since the earliest days of Christianity. The corporal represents the shroud in which Jesus was buried after he was crucified until he rose from the grave. Burse The burse is a cover used to keep the corporal from being soiled or to reverently hold it so that particles don t fall from it. It is used to add some reverence to holding the corporal which often will contain particles of the host, the body of Christ. Chalice Veil The chalice veil is used to cover the chalice when it has been built before and after Mass. This is what the chalice looks like when it has been fully "built" or prepared for the Mass. It is reset like this after Communion. From bottom to top, the order for items in the fully built chalice is, the chalice, purificator, paten (which should have a large priest s host on it before Mass), pall, chalice veil, and burse containing the corporal. It is the responsibility of the altar servers to make sure that this is prepared before Mass and returned to the Sacristy after Mass. Before putting away the chalice, it should be rebuilt for the next Mass. 22

26 Postures at Mass Posture is how you are using the parts of your body at a particular time. An altar server has to carry out a number of different actions at mass, and so there are a number of different postures. Know what you are to do while serving, and when you are to do it. Remember: Always do things smoothly. If you make a mistake, never get flustered. As long as you remain calm and collected, it is unlikely anyone in the congregation will even notice. Hands Unless you are sitting down or carrying something (like a candle), your hands should be kept joined in front of your chest; either locked together, or palm-to-palm, fingers pointing upward. Keep your hands high up on your chest. If you are carrying something in one hand hold the other hand flat on your chest. Bowing When you bow to someone or something at mass, it should be a smooth forward inclining of your head and shoulders. Never walk and bow at the same time; stop before bowing. Remember, if you are carrying something, do not bow at all. There are two types of bowing, the bow of the head and the bow of the body as described below: Bow of the Head This bow is a slow nod of the head, made when the name of Jesus, Mary, or the saint of the day is mentioned or leaving the priest after an action. Bow of the Body This bow is made from the waist with hands folded. It should be made slowly and reverently when passing before the altar if the Blessed Sacrament is not present, at the elevation of the consecration (if you are standing during the consecration for some reason), At the Creed at the words by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. Genuflecting When you genuflect, keep your hands in front of your chest while you go down on your right knee. Keep your body straight and rise to the standing position. Be sure that your vestments do not trip you on the way down or up. If the Blessed Sacrament is reposed in the tabernacle (you will know this because the vigil lamp will be lit), it is appropriate to genuflect whenever you pass in front of it. Walking Always walk with your back straight and your head held straight and high. The pace should not be rushed but deliberate. The cross-bearer always sets the pace in processions. When walking in pairs, act in unison, remember you are a team. 23

27 Kneeling When you kneel, your body should be upright and your hands should be in front of your chest, well above your waist. Standing Always stand up straight with both feet firmly on the floor six to eight inches apart. This will give you balance and comfort at the same time. Do not lean against the furniture or against the walls. Sitting Sit down on your chair carefully and gracefully. Once you are seated, sit tall and do not slouch. Place both feet firmly on the floor. Place your hands on your lap or flat on your thighs in a relaxed manner. Eyes During Mass always look towards the place where the action is happening: the celebrant s chair, the ambo or the altar. When a reader is reading the scriptures, you should be looking at the reader. Keep your attention on the presider in case he is need of your assistance. Preparation Before Mass Before you arrive at the church, make sure you get a good night sleep. Make sure your shoes are clean. Make sure your hands and fingernails are clean. Dispose of any chewing gum. Make sure you are dressed according to the dress code and guidelines outlined in this manual. When you vest, make sure the cassock is the RIGHT SIZE, the bottom should be right above the tops of the shoes. While in the Sacristy before Mass, maintain a quiet and prayerful atmosphere. Remember, we are preparing for the Mass, not engaging in social time. There are prayers next to the sink for you to say as you vest and prepare for Mass. You should say these prayers as you vest before every Mass. You should arrive and be vested 15 minutes before the Mass begins. When you arrive, sign in on the sheet outside the sacristy. This will give you time for your responsibilities before Mass that we go over below. After you have completed your checks of the altar area before Mass, gather in the sacristy with the priest, deacon, readers, ministers of Holy Communion, and anyone else who will be in the entrance procession. If there is a visiting priest, talk to him ahead of time to see if you need to do anything differently for him. Determine with the other altar servers who will carry the candles and be the cross-bearer. Remember, candles are only used if there are at least 3 servers. Light your candles and leave them on the table until the priests instructs you to go to the Narthex for the prayer before Mass begins. 24

28 Instructions for Serving at Mass The following instructions are for masses with three altar servers: A cross bearer and two candle bearers Before Mass When You Arrive at Church: 1. Arrive at least fifteen minutes before Mass begins. 2. Sign in at the book that is outside the sacristy on the stand. This lets the priest know you are there and lets other servers know if a server is needed. 3. Put on your cassock and surplice. Treat this vestment with care, and check that it is not too short or too long. It should touch the top of your shoes. 4. Locate the two processional candles and processional cross. 5. Go up to the altar and check that the altar candles are lit including the paschal candle, if present. This is often done by the Sacristan. If they are not lit, light them at least five minutes before mass begins using the candle lighter in the sacristy. Lighting the candles tells the people that Mass is about to begin. When lighting the candles, be careful for the safety of the church and all who are in it, including yourself. Keep the flame away from your vestments. 6. Check that the following items are on the credence table (see diagram below: Glass cruet with water Glass bowl and towel for finger washing bowls for communion (there will be one or two for most Sunday Masses). Six communion cups filled with wine The priest s chalice, fully built as described above, with chalice veil and burse. Several purificators (same number as communion cups) Gold plated covered ciborium If anything is missing see a Sacristan or Altar Server Coordinator, or tell the priest. 7. Check that the bells are placed beside the altar servers pew 8. Check that the Missal is on the table next to the altar servers pew 9. Check to see if the wine cruet and large bowl of altar bread are on the back table in the nave. If they are not there, alert the priest. They will be brought up during mass by the gift bearers. After all of the above items are checked and completed, all the altar servers should wait in the sacristy for any special instructions from the priest or deacon. When it is time for Mass to begin, the priest will instruct you to go to the narthex with cross and processional candles to say a brief prayer before Mass Entrance Procession 25

29 After prayer, the altar servers will line up in the following order: Cross Bearer, leads the procession Two Candle Bearers carrying lighted candles process on either side of the cross bearer or just side-by-side just behind the cross. If there is only one Remaining servers follow (if any) A deacon or reader carrying the Book of Gospels follows the servers. The priest is always last. If there is only one server, that server will carry in the cross. If there are only two servers, then no candles will be used, and the server will line up behind the cross-bearer. If there are more than three servers then extra servers will line up next to each other behind the cross and candle bearers. 1. Once the choir has begun to sing, the altar servers will begin to process in. Walk at a normal or slightly slower speed; do not run down the aisle. 2. The Cross Bearer will keep walking, bow their head when they reach the bottom of the steps, and go the left of the Altar, and put the cross in the stand. 3. The candle bearers will keep walking, bow their heads when they reach the bottom of the steps, and go the left of the Altar, and put the candles on the counter in the room behind the altar (They stay lit the whole Mass). 4. Any other servers should genuflect when they reach the stairs, then go to the pew to the left of the sanctuary, and remain standing. Introductory Rites: 1. The priest begins the Mass with the Sign of the Cross. 2. The Priest will then introduce the Mass of the day with a brief explanation of the readings or welcoming people to the Mass. 3. Penitential Act: the priest asks us to recall our sins and ask God for forgiveness. We then respond with the Lord Have Mercy, Christ Have Mercy, Lord Have Mercy 4. The Gloria will then be recited or sung on Sundays and Feast days. NOTE: The Gloria is omitted during Advent and Lent. 26

30 5. As the Gloria is finishing, the cross bearer will pick up the book (Missal) and go up to the priest. Stand on the left side of the priest (in between the priest s chair and the deacon s chair), so that the priest can look out at the whole congregation. 6. After the priest is done with the prayer, the server will close the book and take it back to his/her pew. The Missal will be your responsibility throughout the Mass. Everyone will be seated for the Liturgy of the Word. Liturgy of the Word 1. First Reading-The Lector will come forward to read the First Reading (No action is required by the altar servers) 2. The Psalm will be recited or sung (No action is required by the altar servers) 3. Second Reading-The Lector will come forward to read the Second Reading (No action is required by the altar servers) 4. Gospel Acclamation (Alleluia) When the choir begins to sing the Alleluia, the two servers that brought in the candles will go and get their candles, and stand on either side of the altar, facing each other. When the priest or deacon takes the Book of the Gospels from the altar (or bows before the altar in a Mass without the Book of the Gospels) and turns toward the ambo, the two servers will go with him, one in front and one behind him, to the ambo. Both servers should take their places on either side of the ambo facing inward toward each other. 5. The priest/deacon will read the Gospel and then end with The Gospel of the Lord, and everyone responds with Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ. Once everyone has responded, and begin sitting down, the candles may be put back. After the candles are put back on the counter, the servers may go back to their seats and sit. 6. The priest/deacon will then give his Homily 7. After the Homily, the priest/deacon will go back to their seat, then the priest will stand for the Profession of Faith. Everyone stands to recite the Nicene Creed. 8. The priest will start the Prayers of the Faithful, and then lector or deacon will read the petitions of the church (Everyone responds Lord, hear our prayer ). After the lector or deacon has finished the petitions, the priest will say a prayer. All will respond with Amen, and the congregation will sit down. Listen attentively to the readings. Do not fidget or squirm. Sing the Psalm Response along with the congregation. Collection, Preparation of the Altar, and Preparation of the Gifts After everyone has been seated, the ushers will walk forward with the baskets to take up the collection. Preparation of the Altar 27

31 The Cross Bearer will bring the Missal to the altar. On Feast Days and Solemnities the cross bearer will bring the Missal to the priest/deacon at the altar, then he will go get the cross and go to the back of the church to lead the procession of the gifts. At the same time, the other servers help the priest or deacon prepare the altar. If there is only one server, that server will help prepare the altar, and the cross will never escort the procession with the gifts. 1. One server will take the burse from on top of the chalice and hold it open for the priest/deacon to remove the corporal(s). 2. That server will return the burse to the credence table and take up the whole chalice and chalice veil. The server will either hand this to the priest/deacon or set it on the altar. The priest/deacon will indicate which he would like. 3. If there is a ciborium with altar bread in it, this should also be brought to the altar. 4. All of the communion cups and purificators (in a single pile) should then be brought to the priest/deacon to set out on the altar. 5. Two servers (and the MC if there is one for the Mass) should remain by the altar. The priest/deacon will then return to his seat for the collection to be completed. If the collection is complete, he will immediately go to the bottom of the stairs to receive the gifts. 6. The servers will stand on either side of the priest (If there is a deacon, then on either side of the priest and deacon) when he is receiving the gifts. 7. The servers standing on either side of the priest will take the gifts after the priests accept them. 8. After all the gifts have been received, all should turn around and return to the altar. Preparation of the Gifts 1. If the priest/deacon gives the bowl of altar bread to a server, that server should wait near the altar to hand it back to the priest/deacon. 2. One of the other servers should bring the cruets of wine (that was brought up with the gifts) and water to the deacon (or priest if there is no deacon). Make sure you take the top off the cruets. Hold them, one in each hand with the handles facing outward, for the priest/deacon to take to prepare the chalice. Never set the cruets on the altar. Wait for the priest/deacon to take the water, mix it with the wine, and then it will be handed back to the server. When the cruet is returned to the server, he should bow to the priest/deacon and put it back on the credence table. 3. The other two servers will then bring forward the small pitcher of water, the bowl, and the towel. The server will pour a small amount of water onto the hands of the priest and the other will hold out the towel for the priest to dry his hands. Both servers should bow together and return to the credence table. If there is only one server, he will drape the towel over his left arm for the priest to take. 4. The servers will then return their seats and remain standing, because the priest will then invite the congregation to stand as well to enter into the Eucharistic prayer 28

32 Eucharistic Prayer The altar servers will kneel and stand with the rest of the congregation. Once everything is on the altar and they have returned to the altar server pew, one server will attend to ringing the bells. The others will remain attentive to offer themselves up on the altar with the gifts that the priest offers in the Eucharistic sacrifice. The bells are rung a total of three times. The bells are rung once for the epiclesis, when the priest extends his hands over the gifts and says one of the following: Bless, acknowledge, and approve [Eucharistic Prayer I] Make holy, therefore, these gifts Eucharistic Prayer II] Therefore, O Lord, we humbly implore you, [Eucharistic Prayer III] May this same Holy Spirit graciously sanctify [Eucharistic Prayer IV]. A good cue for this time to ring the bells is when the deacon kneels behind the altar. At the Consecration, the bells are rung three times as the priest raises the Body and three more times as the priest raises the Blood. Remain kneeling until the final, sung Amen that concludes the Eucharistic Prayer. As with the rest of the Mass, make sure you are attentive to the Mass and the priest. If he notices something missing or wrong, he may cue you to come up to resolve the issue. Communion Rite AFTER THE PRIEST RECEIVES THE BODY AND BLOOD, the servers should come to the center aisle to receive communion before the congregation. Once the altar servers have received both species (if they so choose), they will go back to their pew to kneel. Sometimes (usually only smaller daily Masses), the priest will distribute communion alone, and the deacon may remind behind to purify the vessels and clear the altar. In that case, the server should return to the altar after receiving communion to assist clearing the altar as in the next step. Once the priest is through distributing communion, he will return to the altar to purify and clear the altar (The servers will line up, like they did to receive communion, to receive items. When a server takes something back to the table, the next server will slide over, and this will continue until the altar has been cleared.) The first thing that needs to be brought up to the altar is the cruet of holy water (take the top off before bringing it to the priest) 29

33 The priest will either take the cruet or instruct the server to pour the holy water over the priest s fingers and into the chalice. When the priest is done, the server will bow his head and take the cruet back and place the top on it. The priest will then begin to hand things for the servers to place on the Credence Table. When the priest gives you something, bow your head and place it on the table. Then return to the altar to receive the next item Once the altar is clear, all servers will return to the server pew and sit until the Prayer after Communion. Prayer after Communion The cross bearer will take the Missal back to the server pew last and remain prepared for the Prayer after Communion. The priest (and deacon) will return to the chair for a brief time of silent prayer. After that, the priest will say, Let us pray, which is the cue for the server with the Missal to bring the book over for the priest to read the prayer. As before, stand on the left side of the priest (in between the priest s chair and the deacon s chair), so that the priest can look out at the whole congregation. Announcements, Concluding Rites, and Procession Out At the end of the Prayer after Communion, the priest may still need the book for a solemn blessing. He will indicate whether he needs the server to remain or return to the pew. Immediately after the prayer, the priest or deacon will make any necessary announcements, then the priest will give the final blessing, and the deacon will dismiss the people. When the final song begins: 1. The cross bearer will get the cross and stand between the front two pews facing the altar. 2. The other servers will get the candles and stand next to each other in front of the cross bearer. 3. The priest (and deacon) will go and reverence the altar, then come to the bottom of the steps. 4. The priest (and deacon) will genuflect and turn (the servers will bow at the same time as the priest and turn around and process out) 5. The servers will walk out of the church and gather in the Narthex, gathered around the processional Cross, the priest will say a blessing, and the servers will respond appropriately. 30

34 After Mass Some possible blessings after Mass: Priest: Prosit (Let it [the Mass] be profitable) Servers: Pro omnibus et singulis (for all and for each) Priest: Let us praise the Lord. Servers: And give Him thanks. There are other possibilities, but these are perhaps the most common. Extinguish your candles and those on the altar. Clean credence table or altar if necessary Remove your cassock and surplice and hang them neatly in the closet 31