Becoming an Acolyte

An Acolyte is the Master of Ceremonies in our St. James Community!  It truly takes a person who is committed to detail and is very organized, as well as having the ability to work with a multitude of personalities.  The Acolyte must arrive 30-40 minutes before mass to fulfill many responsibilities which may include the following, depending on the time of the mass:

Ø      Unlocking and locking all the main doors.

Ø      Preparing all items needed for mass on the altar and communion, including lighting of all candles, as well as removing and cleaning all items after mass.

Ø      Assuring there are Lector(s) and Eucharistic Ministers present, as well as volunteers to bring up the Gifts of Bread and Wine during the Offertory.

Ø      Assist the Priest and Deacon(s) during mass, along with guiding any altar servers that are present.

The Acolyte allows the Priests and Deacons to be truly present to all members of the congregation before and after masses.  This in itself is a gift to all.  As an Acolyte you give the gift of allowing the Priests and Deacons to circulate through our church thus allowing them to be approachable to hear the cries and challenges that another may be facing that day or that week. It gives them the opportunity to see anyone who may be visiting our parish for the first time.

Anyone who is interested in becoming an Acolyte must be trained for this ministry.  We have wonderful members of our St. James community who have volunteered to mentor anyone interested in this beautiful ministry. You may contact Mrs. April Dykes at, adykes.stjamesparish@gmail.com or you can call the Parish Center directly at 203-375-5887 .