This page is designed to highlight some of the most common and vital parts of an altar server's duties. It is closely related to Postures and Practices and the two pages should be used together.
Preparation
If the cross and/or candle
holder is at the front of the sanctuary, dress in in the servers
alb before getting them. Make sure
it is as straight and neat as possible. If a Tabernacle is in the sanctuary,
genuflect when entering (if there is no Tabernacle, a low bow to the altar is
proper). Carry the cross at all times correctly (there are no 'off duty'
times with the cross). Carry the cross to the center in front of the altar,
pause briefly facing the altar or Tabernacle, and then walk to the rear of the
church.If the altar server's duties also include lighting the candles, prior to taking the cross, use an 'extinguisher' (lights with one side and snuffs with the other) lit prior to approaching the altar area (sanctuary). Facing the front of the church, start on the right side (if there are multiple candles, light the one closest to the altar first). When crossing, genuflect/bow and then light the left side. (At the end of the service, do the opposite...extinquish the left side of the altar first from beginning with the outermost candle).
Procession
The cross and candle bearer lead the procession to the altar (see this page for details). Pace should be steady, not rushed. There is no genuflection or pause in front of the altar...proceed smoothly to the side to place the crucifix in it's appropriate stand facing the congregation. Remain standing as the Mass begins.
Preparation of the Gifts
1. If crossing in front of a central Tabernacle and it is necessary to cross in front of it to prepare the altar, always remember to genuflect every time a complete crossing is made.
2. Move the items from the credence table to the altar in the positions shown below (items are shown as if facing the congregation)
3. Note: the central figure separate stacked items for viewing (paten, corporal (actually white), purificator and chalice
4, To the left is the Sacramentary (Missal) and to the right the cruet of water (this may be brought later in some parishes)
6. Return to the credence table and hold the cruet of water, basin and the finger towel (draped over the arm) beside the priest. After he washes, return them to the credence table and return to your seat.
Communion
Aside from a straight posture, hands should be folded throughout the communion itself, including while kneeling after reception.
Recessional
1. Remove the cross from its stand when the priest kisses the altar at the end of Mass.
2. Follow the priest as he walks to the front of the altar, passing around him and turning to face the altar.
3. After the priest turns from bowing/genuflecting, slowly lead the procession out.
4. As the congregation is filing out, return the cross (center aisle) to its stand in the sanctuary. Make the appropriate bow or genuflection when leaving the sanctuary.
5. ** If candles are part of your duty, extinquish them after placing the cross in its stand.
Prayers and Responses
Postures and Practices