Purpose of the Ministry of Acolyte:

To assist the Presider at the altar in the celebration of Holy Eucharist.

Overview of Responsibilities:

The duties of the Acolyte are many and varied. The ministry calls for a solid commitment, good organizational skills and an ability to lead other ministers in their responsibilities at Mass.

Some examples of tasks are as follows:

Preparation for Eucharist:

• Prepare the Sacramentary
• Light altar candles
• Check Tabernacle for appropriate amount of ciboria.
• Place offertory table in back of the church.
• Prepare the credence table.
• Assure that all “Mininster of Holy Communion” positions are filled.
• Select gift bearers.
• Greet altar servers and assign their duties.
• Oversee the duties of the Readers.

Duties at Mass:

• Lead the procession while carrying the cross.
• Set the altar for the Offertory.
• Greet and lead the gift bearers.
• Assist the Priest at the Offertory
• Clear the altar following Holy Communion.
• Lead the recession.

Following Eucharist

• Extinguish candles and return hymnals.
• Lock Tabernacle and store key.
• Remove items from credence table.
• Clean all vessels.

For questions regarding this ministry and future scheduled training sessions,

please contact Pat Stockdale through the Parish Center at 375-5887.