Introduction
From the earliest days of the Church, when people gathered for prayer, they were lead by and served by members of their local communities. This ancient and venerable practice continues to the present day and is nowhere more evident than when we gather to celebrate Mass.
Throughout the ages, the Church has seen developments in various ministries. The role of server, once entrusted only to those preparing for the priesthood, in an installed order of acolyte, the role and the opportunity to serve has been expanded.
Altar Servers
Any child in the parish, 4th grade and older, who has received first Communion, is eligible to become an altar server. Adults are also invited to become altar servers.
Becoming an Altar Server
CHARACTERISTICS OF A SERVER
*Desire to serve the Lord
*Commitment to duties
*Punctuality
*Desire to actively participate in the Mass
*Respectful attitude at Mass
*Is a member of a family that regularly attends Mass at SS. Peter and Paul Parish.
RESPONSIBILITIES
*BEFORE MASS: Arrive fifteen minutes before Mass, put on an alb, light the candles, and take the offertory gifts to the table at the center of the Church.
*DURING MASS: Altar Servers carry the processional cross and candles, hold the Sacramentary for opening/closing prayer, prepare the altar for the offerings, assist the priest when he receives the gifts from the people, present the bread, wine, and water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts, assist the priest when he washes his hands, and clear the altar after Communion. Altar Servers will communicate with the priest for further instruction on other duties to be performed at Mass.
ASSIGNMENTS
*Servers can chose either the 4:30 p.m. Mass on Saturday or 9:00 a.m., 10:30 a.m. (Polish), or 12:00 p.m. Mass on Sunday. If members of the server’s family are lectors or Eucharistic ministers, servers can be assigned for the same Mass.
*Altar servers may serve as often as the schedule allows. When unable to serve as scheduled, a substitute should be found.
*Assignments are posted in the parish bulletin and in the Sacristy.
*Three altar servers are needed for Saturday/Sunday Masses.
*Training is provided by the parish priest(s), as often as needed.
ATTIRE
*A simple white alb reflected the baptismal root of all ministry. It should be clean and properly fit and appropriate socks and footwear should be worn.
Please call the Worship Office at 313-846-2222 ext. 119 for more information.