Serving at the altar is a vital ministry in the Catholic Church, offering a unique opportunity to participate more fully in the Mass. These guidelines, adapted from those prepared by the Committee on the Liturgy, outline the roles and responsibilities of altar servers, ensuring dignified and reverent service. Originally intended for discussion by the National Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1994, these remain relevant, especially in light of evolving liturgical practices and documents such as Spiritus Domini. These guidelines aim to provide a framework for diocesan policies regarding altar servers, promoting inclusivity and clear standards for this important ministry.
The Role of Altar Servers: Who Can Serve?
While the instituted ministry of acolyte is traditionally reserved for men, the Church permits bishops to allow altar servers – both men and women, boys and girls – to perform many liturgical functions typically associated with acolytes. This inclusivity, determined at the diocesan level, ensures a uniform approach within each diocese. It’s crucial to recognize that there should be no functional distinction based on gender in Altar Serving. The outdated term “altar boys” should be replaced with the more inclusive term “servers,” reflecting the broader participation in this ministry. This shift in terminology emphasizes the function rather than the gender of those assisting at the altar.
Qualifications and Essential Formation for Servers
To effectively undertake altar serving, individuals should possess a certain level of maturity, enabling them to understand and execute their responsibilities with reverence. Typically, servers should have received their First Holy Communion and ideally, receive Eucharist whenever they participate in the liturgy. Proper formation is paramount before anyone begins altar serving. This formation should comprehensively cover the Mass, its various parts, and their significance. Servers need to be instructed on the liturgical objects – their names and uses – and their specific functions during Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Furthermore, guidance on maintaining appropriate decorum and attire while serving is essential, fostering a respectful and dignified atmosphere during services.
The Practicalities of Altar Serving: Functions and Vesture
In the practical execution of Mass, the presence of at least one altar server is considered integral to the normal celebration. On Sundays and significant occasions, employing two or more servers is recommended to manage the various functions effectively. These functions include carrying the cross and processional candles, holding the Roman Missal for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar, managing incense and the censer, and presenting the bread, wine, and water during the preparation of gifts. Servers also assist the priest when he receives gifts from the congregation, wash the priest’s hands, and generally assist both the priest celebrant and deacon as needed throughout the Mass.
Regarding vesture, the General Instruction of the Roman Missal allows acolytes, altar servers, readers, and other lay ministers to wear the alb or other suitable vestments or dignified clothing. To maintain uniformity and visual harmony within the sanctuary, it is recommended that all servers wear the same liturgical vesture, contributing to the solemnity and order of the liturgical celebration.
Participation and Positioning During Mass
Altar servers are not silent participants; they actively engage in the liturgy. They respond to the prayers and dialogues of the priest alongside the congregation and join in singing hymns and other liturgical chants. Their positioning in the sanctuary is also carefully considered to ensure they can readily assist the priest celebrant and deacon. While the space immediately next to the priest is typically reserved for the deacon, servers should be positioned in a place that allows them to perform their duties efficiently and unobtrusively. It’s important to note that while servers play a crucial role, they are not authorized to distribute Holy Communion unless specifically mandated by the bishop for this function, a role distinct from their regular altar serving duties.
Blessing for Altar Servers
The Church provides a formal recognition of the commitment of altar servers through the Order for the Blessing of Altar Servers, Sacristans, Musicians, and Ushers. This blessing, found in the Book of Blessings, is appropriately conferred before servers commence their ministry, acknowledging their service and dedication to the liturgical life of the parish.
In conclusion, altar serving is a valued ministry that enriches the celebration of the Mass. By adhering to these guidelines, parishes can ensure that altar servers are well-formed, appropriately vested, and fully integrated into the liturgical life of the Church, contributing to reverent and meaningful worship experiences for the entire community.
