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Altar Servers

What is an Altar Server?

An Altar Server is someone who assists the Priest or Deacon in the celebration of the Mass.  Usually, an Altar Server's responsibilities include carrying the Crucifix or candles during the processional, holding books for the Celebrant to read, and preparing the Altar for the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

St. Mary's School children in grades 5 and 6 have the opportunity to serve at weekday Masses including Tuesday evenings.
SOR children in grades 5 and 6 have the opportunity to serve at the Tuesday evening Masses and other weekday Masses during summer vacation.
Seventh graders and older students may serve at any Mass--weekday, weekend, or Holy Days.

Due to the current shortage of altar servers at the 4:00 PM Saturday Mass, sixth graders may check in the sacristy before that Mass to see if they are needed.

To become an Altar Server, please contact Cherie Freewalt at the Religious Education Office

You can find a more detailed definition, as well as historical information, about Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Altar Servers, and the various parts of the Mass by visiting the Catholic Encyclopedia.

Important note for Altar Servers

Dear Altar Servers:

Once again, we still do not have enough altar servers to make a schedule for the 4:00 PM Mass. Thank you to those, who normally attend other Mass times, who have attended the 4:00 PM Mass on occasion with the intention of assisting. Thank you to the sixth graders, who have made it a point to serve at the 4:00 PM Mass. Thank you to all of you for the service you give to our parish at all the weekend Masses and Holy Days. You are appreciated!

I am sure you have noticed that altar servers ring the altar bells at the times of the elevation of the Host and the elevation of the Precious Blood. Pick up the bells as quietly as possible. Do not lean on the other steps to pick up the bells. They should be very handy. Hold the bells straight down at your side and gently rock the hand. This will give the nicest ringing sound. Unless Father instructs you otherwise, ring the bells throughout the entire elevation until Father lowers the Host to place back into the ciborium or lowers the chalice back onto the altar.

Yours in Christ,
Cheryl L. Freewalt
CRE

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