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ALTAR SERVER TRAINING MANUAL FOR
ST. JOSEPH’S CATHOLIC CHURCH
Last revised January 23, 2016
INTRODUCTION
You have been given a divine privilege above all earthly honors in being permitted within the
sanctuary to serve at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, at which the Church gives to God, officially
and in the name of all, the worship that is due to Him alone.
In earlier times, only ordained acolytes, that is, clerics in the fourth minor order conferred upon
candidates to the priesthood, were permitted to serve at Mass. Today, when the number of clerics
in minor orders is smaller, custom has tolerated specially-selected laymen to substitute in these
duties.
As an altar server, you should reflect the same attitude as the priest in celebrating Holy
Mass. Specifically, you should perform your liturgical duties "digne, attente, devote," that is
worthily, attentively, and devoutly, in body, mind, and heart. Your sacred duties require of you
the greatest reverence in the sanctuary, the deepest attention to your duties, and the most zealous
preparation of all your liturgical actions.
You should always conduct yourselves worthily in your position, a position to which even the
angels of heaven cannot aspire. If you serve with care and devotion, you will edify the
congregation, who look to you as an example for the proper disposition of assisting at Mass. If,
however, you perform your duties with haste, carelessness, and inattention, you will degrade "the
most beautiful thing this side of heaven," the worship of Almighty God in the Holy Sacrifice of
the Mass.
In and around the church, in the sacristy, and especially around the altar, you should show by
your demeanor the holiness of the duties that you are performing. Even your exterior cleanliness
should be a mark of your interior purity of heart. You should, of course, avoid any levity,
irreverence, and idle talk in the presence of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. Before Mass,
when you are waiting for the procession to the altar, you should be preparing your mind and
heart for the sacred duties upon which you are about to enter. At the altar your movements
should be stately and dignified, not hasty or affected.
Devout altar servers have been the cause of conversions to the faith. On the other hand, careless
servers have been the cause of the failure of souls to come to the faith. It is said that the
American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow was kept from the Faith by the irreverence he
witnessed of altar servers near the presence of Our Lord in the Tabernacle.
The French poet, Paul Claudel, on the other hand, was won back to the Church when he observed
the reverence of those at the altar in Notre Dame Cathedral. "It was the most profound and
grandiose poetry, enhanced by the most august gestures ever confided to human beings. I could
not sufficiently satiate myself with the spectacle of the Mass."
May you at all times conduct yourself worthily, attentively, and devoutly, and by your actions
and example at the altar bring glory to God and many souls to the one true Church.
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Excerpt from TRADITIO Traditional Roman Catholic Internet Site. Copyright 1997-2002
CSM. Reproduced with permission.
A NOTE TO PARENTS
Parents, your commitment and cooperation is necessary for the success of this program. You will
need to take responsibility for bringing your children to Mass early, attending training sessions,
and that they are dressed appropriately for Mass. Your children will probably need your help in
memorizing their prayers and preparing for Mas. They will need to learn to act reverently and
prayerfully inside the church and during Mass, and they will learn this from watching you.
Remember that your children will be in plain sight of hundreds of worshippers at Mass and that
everything that they do (or don’t do) can be seen by everyone. How your children behave (or
misbehave) will help or hinder the dignity of the Mass and the prayers of worshippers.
QUALIFICATIONS FOR ACCEPTANCE INTO THE GUILD
To be accepted into the guild as an altar server, one must
 Have a PERSONAL desire to serve (not just the parent’s desire)
 Be at least 3rd grade (8 years old)
 Have been baptized and received First Communion
 Be able to understand and perform their duties in a reverent and dignified manner
 Commit to attend training sessions and showing up 15 minutes early to serve
 Attend Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation
 Have a personal devotional life (daily prayer, Scripture reading, etc.)
 Strive to live a holy and faithful life in accordance with the laws of the Church
DRESS CODE
How we dress for an occasion is indicative of how much importance we attach to it. This is why
we dress up for weddings, graduations, job interviews, etc. The Mass is infinitely more important
than any other event or ceremony that we will ever participate in, because we are literally going
to see God Himself. As altar servers, you will be only a few feet away from the altar on which
Jesus Christ, the King of Kings, is made present under the appearance of bread and wine. It is
therefore extremely important that servers dress appropriately for Mass.
Yes, you will be wearing liturgical vestments over your clothing, but you will still be inside a
church; and before and after Mass you will still be in the presence of God in the Sanctuary.
Furthermore, you will probably not serve at every Mass you attend, so it is good to form the
habit of dressing in a dignified manner for Mass.
The dress code for altar servers at St. Joseph’s is:




Black dress shoes and black socks (white is permissible for girls) and are to be worn; if
slacks are not black, fold them up so that they do not show under your alb or cassock.
Shoes must be closed toe. No sneakers, sandals, flip flops, heels, or platform shoes. If
you do not have black shoes, they can be purchased at Goodwill for around $6. Also there
will be a few extra pairs in the sacristy for you to borrow if needed.
No shorts or jeans.
Do not wear shirts with writing, logos, stripes, plaid design, or that are excessively
decorative as it will show through the alb. Try to wear solid colors.
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


Shirt collars should not be visible through the alb. If necessary you can fold your collar
inward.
Long hair should be tied back in a ponytail or bun so that it does not get in the way.
Albs should reach to the ankles, at the top of the shoes.
Altar servers who are not dressed appropriately may be asked to not serve that day.
SCHEDULING AND SERVING
Four altar servers are scheduled for each Sunday Mass; at least 3 are needed to perform their
duties well. You are expected to show up for the Mass for which you will be serving.
Approximately 2 weeks before a new schedule is written, you will be asked to submit your
preferred Mass time(s) and any scheduling conflicts. Respond to this email as soon as possible.
Check the serving schedule as soon as it is released. If you are unable to be at a Mass for which
you are scheduled, use the altar server email list to arrange for a substitute (preferably of equal or
higher rank) as soon as possible. Servers who repeatedly skip their obligations will have their
serving privileges revoked.
Servers are expected to receive Communion at the Masses they serve. Thus is it essential that
servers go to Confession regularly (recommended at least once a month and as soon as possible
if a mortal sin has been committed).
You are required to observe the one hour Eucharistic fast prior receiving Holy Communion.
Only water and medicine are allowed within this one hour period (this means no snacks, coffee,
tea, soda, juice, mints, gum, etc.). Because as an altar server you are expected to receive
Communion, if you have not observed this fast please do not serve.
Servers should have memorized, or be in the process of memorizing, the prayers and responses
of the Mass. They should also memorize the altar server and vesting prayers posted in the
sacristy.
READING MATERIALS
In order to support the spiritual formation of our altar servers outside of the Mass, the parish has
provided a small library of books which servers may check out to read. Some of the books are
required reading for servers seeking promotion to higher ranks, while others are only
recommended. Refer to the form on the bulletin board for current titles and check-out
procedures.
RANKING SYSTEM
We will be introducing a ranking system for our altar servers. This will enable us to better train
our servers and allow them to better fulfill the necessary duties of serving at the altar. There will
be four ranks:
Apprentice
Initial rank for those who are learning to serve for the first time. Apprentices will attend
beginner training sessions and learn the basic postures and duties of altar servers. They will
begin to learn the prayers and the order of the Mass; learn to properly vest themselves; and
learn the terminology for sacred vessels and liturgical vestments.
Requirements: Fulfill entrance requirements for the server’s guild; responsible for learning
the Apprentice skills and prayers listed on the Skills and Prayers charts; and faithfully come
to Mass early and serving when scheduled.
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Skilled
Skilled servers will have more experience and be able to serve at most roles in the Mass with
minimal supervision from Master and Elite servers. They are familiar with the basic order
and theology of the Mass and have a track record of faithful service.
Requirements: Must have mastered the Apprentice skills and prayers listed on the Skills and
Prayers charts; fulfill all reading requirements; and a demonstrated record of faithfully
showing up on time and serving when scheduled.
Master
Master servers are familiar with the order, prayers, rubrics, and theology of the Mass. They
will ensure that the vessels are properly prepared before Mass, candles are lit and doused,
and lead other servers in prayer before and after Mass.
Requirements: Must have memorized and mastered the prayers and duties listed on the
Prayer and Skills charts for Master servers; fulfill all reading requirements; and a
demonstrated record of faithfully showing up on time and serving when scheduled.
Elite
Elite servers will act as a Master of Ceremonies and take charge by delegating tasks and
directing other servers during Mass. They are intimately familiar with the order, prayers,
rubrics, and theology of the Mass. They will assist in training and leading younger altar
servers.
Requirements: Must have memorized and mastered the prayers and duties listed on the
Prayer and Skills charts; have acted as MC at 3 different Masses; fulfilled all reading
requirements; committed to serving through high school; and a demonstrated record of
faithfully showing up on time and serving when scheduled.
It is important to note that promotions are not automatic. Servers must have an excellent record
of faithful service and take responsibility for meeting all of the requirements for promotion.
Please note that this is a general outline of how the ranking system will work, and that details
may change in the future.
GENERAL RULES FOR SERVING AT MASS
1. All vesting and devesting must be done in the sacristy. Do not leave the sacristy until you
have completely finished vesting, and do not begin to devest until you are in the sacristy and
have completed all of your post-Mass duties.
2. Once you have vested, you are “on duty.” This means that you need to behave in a reverent
and dignified manner befitting someone serving at the altar.
3. Follow the priest and MC’s cues for when to sit and stand.
4. Always pay attention to what Father is doing. He may need something, in which case he will
gesture towards you. He should not have to gesticulate wildly to get your attention.
5. Always avoid walking up to the platform from the front steps (at Prince Avenue). Altar
servers should approach from the side steps (including when bringing up the crucifix after the
procession).
6. When standing from a kneeling position, you may lift the side of your alb or cassock to avoid
tripping as you stand. You can also stand up one foot at a time to avoid stepping on your
vestments.
7. When walking, standing, and kneeling, keep hands together in a prayerful position close to
the chest with the right thumb crossed over the left thumb.
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8. When one hand is occupied with some task, the empty hand should be placed flat against the
chest.
9. As much as possible, servers should act in unison when performing actions together. Follow
the lead of the most senior server for bowing, kneeling, and crossing yourselves in a
synchronized manner.
10. Make a large Sign of the Cross; make sure that you are signing yourself with a cross, not an
upside down T.
11. When approaching or walking past the center of the altar outside of Mass, genuflect. When
walking between the Tabernacle and the altar, bow moderately toward the altar (this is not
necessary when you are carrying vessels to the altar during Mass).
12. When two servers turn around together, they should turn inward (facing each other).
13. Whenever the tabernacle is opened, the person doing so will genuflect. If you are standing on
the platform, also genuflect. If you are not on the platform, make a head bow.
14. As vessels and cloths are used, they should be carefully placed toward the back of the
credence table. Vessels that will be used later (eg, water cruet) should be kept near the front.
15. After placing a sacred vessel on the altar, always make a head bow to the priest or deacon.
16. Vessels should be placed on the altar when brought up (except for cruets). Do not hand them
directly to the priest or deacon.
IMPORTANT NOTE
Different priests will do things differently when they celebrate Mass. Changes for when Fr.
David celebrates Mass are in RED UPPERCASE LETTERS.
DIRECTIONS FOR SERVING AT MASS
PREPARATION
1. Arrive at least 15 minutes before Mass begins. Wash your hands before vesting and check
the calendar so you know which color vestments to wear. To put on a hooded alb, hold the
collar with one hand. Slip your other arm into the alb and its sleeve. Grab the collar with your
sleeved hand, then put your other arm into its sleeve. Finally, slip the collar over your head.
Say the vesting prayers while vesting. After vesting the most senior server will lead everyone
in the Prayer before Mass.
2. The candles need to be lit at least 10 minutes before Mass (see “Lighting Candles” section
below).
3. The credence table should be inspected to ensure everything that will be needed is there.
These items should be on the credence table (see diagram below):
a. Priest’s chalice with purificator, paten, unconsecrated host, pall, and 1 corporal on top
b. Three communion chalices covered by three purificators
c. Cruet of water
d. Ewer, hand towel, and lavabo
e. Wine flagon and ciborium with hosts on the offertory table (these should be covered)
4. After everything has been prepared and you have prayed, go to the back of the nave and line
up.
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INTROIT
7. The crucifer is first in line, standing far enough up the aisle so that everyone can stand behind
him. Candlebearers stand directly behind him side by side. Others servers line up in an
organized manner, with shorter servers nearer the front. The corpus should face forward,
toward the altar (THE CORPUS SHOULD FACE THOSE IN PROCESSION).
8. The procession begins when the choir begins to sing, not when the music begins. If there are
people still in the aisle, wait for them to be seated before beginning. During the processional,
walk at a moderate pace while looking straight ahead. Do not look around.
9. When the crucifer reaches the front of the aisle (marked by the black line), he will veer
diagonally to stand in front of the RIGHT altar candle. The servers behind him side by side
will separate: half going to the crucifer’s left and the other half to the LEFT side (beginning
at the LEFT altar candle). The priest and deacon will stand between the servers. No one
should be standing between the priest and the crucifer, and there should be about the same
number of servers on either side. The crucifer bows while everyone will genuflect or bow,
depending on what the priest does.
a. If there are candlebearers, they will position themselves on the outside. All other
servers should be standing between them (see “Candlebearers” section below).
10. After reverencing the altar, servers on the right will go up the right steps while servers on the
left will go up the left steps (the priest and deacon will go up the right side). The crucifer will
return the crucifix, while everyone else goes directly to their seats. When passing the altar,
bow to it profoundly. The MC will sit next to the credence table so that he can more easily
direct everyone.
11. If there is a book bearer, he will sit to the priest’s left. THERE WILL BE NO BOOK
BEARER WHEN FR. DAVID CELEBRATES MASS OR WHEN THERE ARE TWO
DEACONS.
LITURGY OF THE WORD
12. Whenever the Holy Name of Jesus is read or sung during the Liturgy, make a full bow of the
head. When the name of Mary is read or sung, make a half bow of the head. During the
homily, bow for the first three mentions of the names Jesus and Mary.
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14. When sitting, hands are placed face down on top of the knees.
15. When the Alleluia begins, the candle bearers will promptly go to their candles and walk with
the priest to the ambo for the Gospel reading (see “Candlebearer section below).
16. At all times, servers must avoid looking around and all unnecessary movement. No
playing with crosses, cinctures, squirming, crossing legs, cracking knuckles, tying
shoelaces, chewing nails, giving manicures, etc. Remember that the congregation can
see everything that you do. If you are distracted, they will be distracted. If you do not
act reverently, neither will they. If you do not participate at Mass, neither will they.
17. During the Apostles’ Creed, moderately bow while reciting the lines “who was conceived by
the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary.” During the Nicene Creed, bow while reciting the
lines “and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and was made man.”
LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
18. After the prayers of the faithful, begin bringing vessels to the altar when the lector says “We
now take up the collection for the support of our parish” (or when directed by the MC). The
escorts will immediately go to receive the gift bearers (see “Escorts” section below). The
vessel bearers will begin to prepare the altar (see “Vessel Bearer” section below).
19. When the priest begins to descend the platform, everyone on the platform will follow him.
RETURN TO WHERE YOU WERE AT THE INTROIT.
20. The priest will give the wine flagon and the ciborium with hosts to the servers on either side
of him. Head bow to the gift bearers. Ascend the stairs on the side that you are on.
21. Servers carrying the ciborium and flagon should proceed directly to the altar. Remove the
ciborium lid and take it to the credence table. If the water cruet has not already been take to
the altar, it needs to be done immediately after returning to the platform.
22. The priest or deacon will pour a little bit of water into the wine flagon. When he is finished,
the cruet needs to be retrieved. Then the wine will be poured. Afterwards the empty flagon
needs to be removed from the altar as soon as possible (it should not need to be handed to
you). During this time, the lavabo can be set up (see “Lavabo” section below).
23. When the priest is ready, the lavabo will be brought to him so that he can wash his hands (see
the “Lavabo” section below for more detailed directions).
24. During the Eucharistic prayer, you should be still and prayerful.
25. At the appropriate times, the Bell Ringer will ring the bells (see “Bell Ringer” section
below).
26. Make a profound bow when Father genuflects after consecrating the Blessed Sacrament and
Precious Blood.
27. Do not hold hands at the Our Father.
28. At the sign of peace, Father David will come to you to exchange the peace. Some priests will
only bow to you, in which case you will head bow to him in return. Do not exchange the
peace with the other altar servers (only exchange it if it is offered to you).
29. If there is an empty ciborium or pyx on the credence table, bring it up after the sign of the
peace.
30. At the Agnus Dei (Lamb of God), strike as your chest with your right hand cupped at the
words “have mercy on us” and “grant us peace” (three times total). Then kneel.
31. Optional: While Father is taking Communion and the Extraordinary Ministers are coming to
the altar, you may pray the Confiteor that is said at the beginning of Mass.
32. When directed by the MC, rise and stand near the altar as illustrated below to receive Holy
Communion. Bow or genuflect before receiving.
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33. After everyone has received, kneel in front of your seat.
34. The Book Bearer (or another server if there is no Book Bearer) will remove the Missal from
the altar and place it on the lectern. If directed by the MC, everyone may be seated.
35. As the priest and Extraordinary Ministers and priest begin to walk back to the platform, the
lavabo needs to be prepared. After the Extraordinary Ministers return the chalices and ciboria
to the credence table or altar, their fingers will need to be purified (see the “Lavabo” section
below).
36. Here is where things will get a little tricky, so you need to be paying attention.
a. If Deacon Jim is assisting Fr. David, you will not need to bring the water cruet to the
altar.
b. If a deacon is not assisting Fr. David, take the water cruet to the altar and pour enough
water to cover the base of the paten.
c. If a visiting priest is celebrating Mass, take the water cruet to the priest. He may either
have you pour water over his fingers or he may take it and start purifying vessels.
37. As vessels are purified, they will be moved to the edge of the altar. One or two servers should
be standing by the credence table ready to remove them as soon as possible.
a. When Deacon Jim is assisting, he will bring the priest’s chalice back himself. You only
need to get the ciboria and corporal from the altar.
CONCLUDING RITES
38. When the priest stands and approaches the altar, the servers move to their positions at the
front of the platform. The servers who lined up on the RIGHT side of the altar at the
beginning of Mass will follow the crucifer across the platform and down the steps. Servers
who were on the LEFT side of the altar will go down the left stairs. The crucifer will get the
crucifix and the candlebearers will get the candles from the altar (see “Crucifer” and
“Candlebearer” section below).
39. Line up in front of the altar as you did at the beginning of Mass. Bow or genuflect with the
priest.
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40. During the recessional, walk at a moderate pace while looking straight ahead. Do not look
around.
41. Process until the end of the aisle before heading back to the sacristy. When you reach the
sacristy, do not de-vest until AFTER you have made an Act of Thanksgiving in the nave.
42. Extinguish candles using the taper in the reverse order that they were lit, careful to avoid
spilling wax on the altar and vestments.
43. ALBS AND CASSOCKS SHOULD BE REPLACED NEATLY AND ACCORDING
TO SIZE.
44. Don’t forget to sign in at the white binder in the sacristy. If you do not sign in, you may not
receive credit for serving at a Mass for which you were scheduled.
ALTAR SERVER ROLES AT MASS
Lighting and Extinguishing Candles
1. Use a gas lighter to light the candle lighter in the sacristy. When lighting the candles,
ALWAYS use the candle lighter. NEVER use a gas lighter.
2. Walk onto the platform at a moderate pace to the LEFT altar candle and light it (the candle
nearest the sacristy).
a. If there is an advent wreath or Easter candle, light it before the LEFT altar candle.
b. If there are multiple candles on each side of the altar, start from the innermost candle on
the LEFT side and work your way outward.
3. Light the RIGHT altar candle (the candle nearest the ambo) next, genuflecting toward the
Tabernacle when you pass the center of the altar. Again, if there are multiple candles, light
the innermost RIGHT candle first and work your way outward.
4. Extinguish the lighter by pulling the taper down. Genuflect when passing the Tabernacle, and
return to the sacristy.
5. When extinguishing candles after Mass, repeat steps 1-3 above exactly except in the reverse
order. That is, first extinguish the RIGHT candle(s), then the LEFT candle(s), and finally the
Advent wreath or Easter candle. When extinguishing, begin with the outermost altar candles
and work your way inward.
6. If possible, two servers can light/extinguish candles together. The additional server walks in
front and removes the glass candle covers for the server with the candle lighter.
Replacing Tapers in the Candle Lighter
1. Tapers are located in a drawer in the cabinet containing the sacred vessels. Use a pair of
scissors to scratch about an inch of wax from an end of the taper. DO THIS OVER A
TRASH CAN!
2. Separate the two strands of string. Push the candle lighter switch all the way up and tie the
string through the hole.
3. Carefully pull the taper into the candle lighter. Hold the candle lighter upside down or have
another server hold it so that it doesn’t break as you are pulling it in.
4. Make sure there is enough taper left in the candle lighter after Mass. Servers may not have
enough time to replace one before the next Mass.
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Escort
1. When the lector says “We now take up the collection for the support of our parish” (or when
directed by the MC), the escorts will walk across the platform and down the RIGHT steps,
bow profoundly toward the altar, and then process down the aisle side by side.
2. When the gifts are ready, you may begin to process down the aisle. Walk together at a
moderate pace down the aisle. The aisle is very long, so you don’t need to wait for the priest
to leave the altar before beginning.
3. Look straight ahead as you process with your hands folded in a prayerful position. Don’t look
around.
4. When you reach the front row (marked by the black line), both escorts make a head bow
together to the priest before separating to stand at either side.
5. After the priest has received the gifts, head bow with him to the gift bearers.
6. Ascend the stairs on the side of the altar that you are on.
Lavabo
1. When everyone has returned to the platform after receiving the gifts, 2 servers need to get the
lavabo ready. The server on the left will hold the bowl in his left hand and the ewer in his
right, while the server on the right will hold the manuterge at the corners and let it hang
down.
2. After preparing the lavabo, stand at the end of the credence table nearest the priest’s chair.
This way you will be nearer the altar and not blocking the credence table.
3. Watch the priest closely. He will say a prayer over the bread, then the wine. After he sets his
chalice down, he will bow toward to altar and say a prayer.
4. While he is bowing and saying his prayer, start walking to him. Stop at the end of the altar.
When he has finished praying you will wash his hands. He should not have to walk over to
where you are. Don’t be afraid to use too much water when pouring.
5. When finished, place the ewer, bowl, and manuterge back exactly where they were before
and return to your seats.
6. When the Extraordinary Ministers begin to return to the platform, the servers will take the
lavabo as before and stand near the Tabernacle (see diagram below). When finished, return
the ewer, bowl, and manuterge to their place.
7. If there is a deacon, Fr. David will come to you to have his hands purified. If there is not
deacon, another server will take the water cruet to Fr. David at the altar.
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Vessel Bearer
1. When the lector says “We now take up the collection for the support of our parish” (or when
directed by the MC), you may begin to take vessels to the altar. The vessels should be
arranged on the credence table before Mass so that you can easily take them up in order.
2. Vessels are carried to the altar in the following order:
a. Missal with bookstand (sometimes the deacon/priest will take this to the altar
himself); (NO BOOKSTAND NEEDED FOR FR. DAVID)
b. Priest’s chalice
c. 2 ancillary chalices
d. Last ancillary chalice with purificators
e. Water cruet (leave cap upright on the credence table)
f. Pyx (if on credence table; open before placing on altar)
g. Empty ciborium (if on credence table, bring after Sign of the Peace
3. After receiving the gifts, the ciborium and wine flagon will be placed on the altar. Make sure
that all vessel handles face the priest so that he can easily use them.
4. When the priest/deacon is finished with the water cruet and wine flagon, go remove them
from the altar as soon as possible.
5. Extraordinary Ministers will usually return the ancillary chalices to the credence table.
Ciboria will be returned to the altar, however, and will need to be removed to the credence
table when the priest/deacon is finished with them.
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Bell Ringer
1. After the Sanctus when everyone kneels, the bell ringer will kneel next to the credence table.
2. Quietly slide the bell out from under the credence table. After the priest says the words of
consecration over the Blessed Sacrament (“ … THIS IS MY BODY, WHICH WILL BE
GIVEN UP FOR YOU”), ring the bell three times. Each ring should be about 1-3 seconds
long, crisp, and distinct from the others. (Note: Fr. David will elevate the host briefly in each
direction; try to synchronize the rings with his movements).
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3. Either hold the bell still in your hand or gently set it down. Do not set the bell down
immediately; let the ringing sound linger. While holding the bell, your empty hand should be
held flat against your chest.
4. Bow profoundly when the priest genuflects.
5. Ring the bell as in step 2 after the priest consecrates the Precious Blood (“ … DO THIS IN
MEMORY OF ME”).
6. Bow again profoundly when the priest genuflects.
7. Quietly set the bell down and slide it under the credence table.
8. Note: sometimes a priest will want the bell to be rung before the consecration at the
Epiclesis. To do this, ring the bell ONCE when the priest extends his hands over the chalice
and paten. DO NOT DO THIS WITH FR. DAVID.
Crucifer
1. The crucifer will always be in front of the procession unless there is a thurifer. Be sure to
hold the cross high enough so that everyone can see it!
2. Line up to process down the aisle in the back of the nave. When the choir begins to sing (not
when the music begins), the crucifer will being the procession. When Fr. David celebrates
Mass, the corpus should face you so that the congregation can see it as you process.
3. Walk down the center of the aisle at a moderately slow pace. Whatever you do, do not rush
down the aisle. It is better to walk too slowly than to walk too fast.
4. Upon reaching the first pew of the nave, walk diagonally so that you end up directly in front
of the far RIGHT altar candle. Wait for everyone else to line up in front of the altar.
5. When the priest bows or genuflects, make a moderate bow. Turn to your left and process up
the stairs to the crucifix stand.
6. After the final blessing, the choir will begin to sing. Immediately go to remove the crucifix
from its stand and walk to the top of the RIGHT stairs. When the other servers and priest are
ready, you may begin to walk down the stairs.
7. Line up exactly where you did at the beginning of Mass: in front of the RIGHT altar candle.
After everyone has reverenced the altar, turn to your right (so that you see the priest) and
begin to process slowly down the aisle.
8. Process down to the very end of the aisle so that you pass everyone with the crucifix. At the
end, turn left and return to the sacristy.
9. REMEMBER: until you reach the sacristy, you are still in procession. This means that you
should walk orderly and solemnly.
Thurifer
Candlebearer
1. To simplify things, the candle bearer on the TABERNACLE’S RIGHT is the right candle
bearer, or RC. The one on the TABERNACLE’S LEFT is the left candle bearer, or LC.
This will allow us to use consist notation and avoid confusion. The RC and LC will bear the
same candle throughout Mass. It is important that the candle bearers perform all of their
actions smoothly, orderly, and in unison.
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2. During procession, the candle bearers will position themselves immediately behind and on
either side of the crucifer.
3. Candles should be held with the inside hand near the base, the outside hand near the knob
or midpoint. The dish for collecting wax should be at eye level.
4. Upon reaching the first pew, the candle bearers separate. The RC will stand to the crucifer’s
left (with some space in between), the LC will go far left with space between him and the
LEFT altar candle. When everyone has lined up, the candlebearers should be on the outside.
5. The RC will go up the RIGHT stairs, the LC the LEFT stairs. Both candle bearers will go to
the altar and SIMULTANEOUSLY place their candles on the altar. They will then meet
behind the altar at the center, bow profoundly to the altar, and go to their seats.
6. As soon as the Alleluia begins, both candle bearers go to their candles (the RC walks across
the front of the altar). They will pick up their candles in unison.
7. The priest/deacon will reverence the altar and pick up the Gospel. When he begins to walk to
the ambo, the RC and LC will walk with him and will position themselves on either side of
the ambo in their respective places. They will face each other during the Gospel, not the
congregation.
8. Remember to make a head bow for the name Jesus and a half-head bow for the name Mary.
9. When the priest/deacon has completed the Gospel, walk in front of the ambo and altar to
replace the candles. Afterwards, meet behind the altar at the center, bow profoundly to the
altar, and return to your seats.
10. After the final blessing, watch for the crucifer. When he stands, immediately go to your
candle (again walking in front of the altar) and pick it up. Pick up your candles
simultaneously. When the priest has reverenced the altar, then descend the stairs (the RC
down the rights stairs, the LC down the left stairs). Stand on the outside of everyone else just
as you did at the beginning of Mass.
11. Recess down the aisle directly behind the crucifer as you did at the beginning of Mass.
ALTAR SERVER PRAYERS
Washing of Hands
Da, Domine, virtutem manibus meis ad abstergendam omnem maculam ut sine pollutione
mentis et corporis valeam tibi servire.
Give virtue to my hands, O Lord, that being cleansed from all stain I might serve you with
purity of mind and body.
For the Alb
Purify me, O Lord, and cleanse my heart; that being made white in the Blood of the Lamb I
may come to eternal joy.
For the Cincture
Gird me, O Lord, with the cincture of purity, and extinguish in me all evil desires, that the
virtue of chastity may abide in me.
For the Server’s Cross
Grant me, O Lord, that I may carry this cross so as to merit His grace. Amen.
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For the Cassock
Dominus, pars hereditatis meae et calicis mei, tu es qui restitues hereditatem meam.
O Lord, the portion of my inheritance and my chalice, You are He who will restore my
inheritance.
For the Surplice
Indue me, Domine, novum hominem, qui secundum Deum creatus est in iustitia et sanctitate
veritatis.
Invest me, O Lord, as a new man, who was created by God in justice and the holiness of
truth. Amen.
Before Serving
Open my mouth, O Lord, to bless Thy Holy Name. Cleanse my heart from all evil and
distracting thoughts. Enlighten my understanding and inflame my will that I may serve more
worthily at Thy holy Altar. O Mary, Mother of Christ the High Priest, obtain for me the most
important grace of knowing my vocation in life. Grant me a true spirit of faith and humble
obedience so that I may ever behold the priest as a representative of God and be willing
follow him in the Way, the Truth, and the Life of Christ. Amen.
Anima Christi (after receiving Communion)
Anima Christi, sanctifica me.
Corpus Christi, salva me.
Sanguis Christi, inebria me.
Aqua lateris Christi, lava me.
Passio Christi, conforta me.
O bone Jesu, exaudi me.
Intra tua vulnera absconde me.
Ne permittas me separari a te.
Ab hoste maligno defende me.
In hora mortis meae voca me.
Et iube me venire ad te,
Ut cum Sanctis tuis laudem te,
In saecula saeculorum. Amen.
Soul of Christ, be my sanctification;
Body of Christ, be my salvation;
Blood of Christ, fill all my veins;
Water from Christ’s side, wash out my
stains;
Passion of Christ, my comfort be;
O good Jesus, listen to me;
In Thy wounds I feign would hide;
Never to be parted from Thy side;
Guard me, should the foe assail me;
Call me, when my life shall fail me;
Bid me come to Thee above;
With Thy saints to sing Thy love;
World without end. Amen.
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Translated by Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman
Act of Thanksgiving after Mass
I give You thanks, holy Lord, Father almighty, everlasting God, that you have vouchsafed to
feed me, a sinner, Your unworthy servant, for no merits of my own but only through the
goodness of Your great mercy, with the Precious Body and Blood of Your Son, our Lord
Jesus Christ. I ask that this Holy Communion may not add to my guilt for punishment but
become a saving intercession for pardon. May it serve as an armor of faith and a shield of
good will. May it drive out my evil inclinations; dispel all wicked desires and fleshly
temptations; increase my charity, patience, humility, obedience, and all my virtues. May it be
a firm defense against the plots of all my enemies, both seen and unseen; a perfect quieting of
all movements to sin, both in my flesh and spirit; a strong attachment to You, the only and
true God, and a happy ending of my life. I beg of You to deign to bring me, a sinner, to that
ineffable feast where You, with Your Son and the Holy Spirit, are to Your holy ones true
light, perfect satisfaction, everlasting joy, consummate pleasure, and perfect happiness.
Amen.
Abbreviated Thanksgiving after Mass
I give You thanks, Father almighty, that you have fed me, an unworthy sinner, for nothing
that I have done but only through Your great mercy, the Precious Body and Blood of Your
Son, Jesus Christ. I pray that this Holy Communion will not be my condemnation but my
salvation. May it drive out my evil desires and fleshly temptations; increase my charity,
patience, humility, obedience, and all my virtues. May it attach me to You, the only and true
God. I beg You to bring me to that heavenly feast where You, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit are
to the saints true light, everlasting joy, and perfect happiness. Amen.
St. Thomas Aquinas, Doctor of the Church
After Serving
O Lord, Jesus Christ, Eternal High Priest, I thank Thee for the privilege of having served at
the holy Altar of Thy sacrifice. Now, as I put aside the garments of that service, I ask that I
may at all times think of Thee, and always act accordingly, as a privileged Altar server. May
I ever seek Thee and find Thee; may I always follow Thee; may Thy priestly spirit be my
guide, and Thy service of love be my example. May Thy Holy Name always be on my lips,
and to Thy praise and glory may every work of mine be done. Ever ready in Thy service,
may I always know and do Thy Holy Will in all things. May I remain pure and blameless and
be found worthy to be Thy servant, and by Thy grace may I persevere to the end. Amen.
GLOSSARY OF CHURCH TERMINOLOGY
Liturgical Colors
The five liturgical colors are:
White - used for Masses of Easter, Christmas season, Feasts and Memorials of Jesus, Mary, the
Angels, Saints who were not martyrs, Weddings, and Funerals; symbolizes Purity, Holiness, Joy,
Triumph, and the Resurrection.
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Red - used on Passion Sunday (Palm Sunday), Good Friday, Pentecost, feasts of the Apostles,
Evangelists and Martyrs; symbolizes the Holy Spirit and the blood of martyrs.
Green - used during Ordinary time; symbolizes Life, Growth and Hope.
Purple - used during Lent and Advent; symbolizes Penance, Atonement and Expiation.
Black - used for Good Friday and Masses of the Dead
There are a few exceptions to these colors. If necessary, white is acceptable for all occasions.
Silver may replace white and gold may replace red, white, or green. Rose is worn only on
Gaudete Sunday (4th Sunday in Advent) and Laetare Sunday (4th Sunday in Lent).
The Liturgy
The Mass is typically divided into four parts: Introductory Rites, Liturgy of the Word,
Liturgy of the Eucharist, and Concluding Rites.
Antiphon – a short verse from Scripture (usually the Psalms) that is sung or chanted. The
entrance antiphon is sung during the entrance procession, while the priest will pray the
Communion antiphon after he has communicated himself.
Collect – a short prayer of petition said by the priest after the Gloria that is unique to each day in
the liturgical calendar.
Confiteor (Penitential Act) – a prayer of general confession said to prepare ourselves to
participate in the Mass. It is not a substitute for private confession to a priest.
Elevation – the act in which the priest raises the consecrated elements for adoration. Two major
elevations are done after the bread and wine have been consecrated separately. Both bread and
wine are raised together for the final minor elevation.
Epiclesis – the part of the Eucharistic prayer in which the priest invokes the Holy Spirit to come
upon the bread and wine.
Eucharistic Prayer – the prayer after the Sanctus in which the most important part of the Mass,
the consecration, occurs. In 1970 three Eucharistic prayers were written in addition to the Roman
Canon.
Ordinary (of the Mass) – the parts of the Mass that do not change. These are the Kyrie, Gloria,
Credo (Creed), Sanctus (Holy, holy), Benedictus, and Agnus Dei (Lamb of God).
Preface – the first part of the Eucharistic prayer, which transitions in the Sanctus. There are
many different prefaces which may be used according to the liturgical season, saint of the day,
and individual preference of the celebrant.
Propers – those parts of the Mass which are proper (specific) to the day or feast being
celebrated. These include the entrance antiphon, collect, Scripture readings, Alleluia, prayer over
the offerings, preface, Communion antiphon, and the prayer after Communion.
Roman Canon – the Eucharistic prayer that has remained almost unchanged since its revision
and arrangement by Pope St. Gregory I (590-604). Until 1970, it was the only Eucharistic prayer
in existence.
Sequence – a special hymn sung after the Alleluia for special feasts and Masses. Only 5 have
been retained: Victimae Paschali (Easter), Veni Sancte Spiritus (Pentecost), Lauda Sion (Corpus
Christi), Stabat Mater (Feast of the Sorrowful Mother), and Dies Irae (Masses for the Dead).
Liturgical Vestments
Alb - long white linen vestment that symbolizes purity.
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Amice - a rectangular vestment of fine linen that the priest wears beneath the alb around his neck
and shoulders.
Biretta - a stiff square cap with ridges and tuft traditionally worn by the priest during the
procession.
Cassock - an ankle-length garment traditionally worn by clerics (at all times) and altar servers
(only at Mass).
Chasuble - the sleeveless outer vestment worn by the priest at Mass.
Cincture - a cord of linen fastened about the waist to confine the alb; it symbolizes chastity.
Cope - a special robe worn by the priest for Benediction, Eucharistic processions, and the
Asperges.
Crosier - a staff conferred on bishops upon their consecration as a symbol of their authority.
Dalmatic - the outer vestment with short, wide sleeves worn by a deacon at Mass.
Humeral Veil - a large scarf used by the priest to hold the monstrance during Benediction and
Eucharistic processions.
Maniple - a band of silk worn on the left arm of the priest; it symbolizes servitude.
Mitre - a liturgical head covering worn by a bishop.
Shoulder cape - a cape sometimes worn by altar servers that covers only the shoulders.
Stole - a long band of silk worn around the priest’s neck and crossed on the chest.
Surplice - a white tunic worn by altar server’s over the cassock.
The Ministers at Mass
Altar Server - a boy or girl (or adult) who fulfills the duties of an acolyte at Mass.
Bishop - a successor to the Apostles who is consecrated to the fullness of the priesthood.
Boat Bearer - an altar server responsible for carrying the incense boat and helping the priest
charge the thurible during Mass and other sacred rites.
Book Bearer - the altar server responsible for holding the Missal for the priest. Fr. David uses a
lectern, and so a book bearer is no necessary when he celebrates Mass.
Cantor - a singer who leads the congregation in singing the Responsorial Psalm.
Crucifer - the altar server who carries the crucifix during processions.
Deacon - assists the priest and reads the Gospel at Mass. Deacons wear a stole diagonally across
the left shoulder under a dalmatic. A deacon is transitional if he is preparing to be ordained a
priest and he is permanent if he is not preparing for the priesthood.
Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion - Either an Instituted Acolyte or a lay person
who helps to distribute Holy Communion at Mass.
Instituted Acolyte - a man who has been permanently commissioned to assist at the altar, and
who, by virtue of his office, is an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. Usually he is a
seminarian or deacon candidate.
Lector - a person charged with reading the Scriptures, prayers, and announcements at Mass.
Master of Ceremonies - a priest or layman who ensures that servers are performing their roles
correctly. We typically only have an MC at special Masses, such as at Easter or when the
archbishop is celebrating Mass.
Ordinary Minister of Holy Communion - a bishop, priest, or deacon who by virtue of their
office ordinarily distributes Holy Communion.
Priest - an ordained minister of the Church entrusted with leading worship at Mass, celebrating
sacred rites, and administering the sacraments.
Sacristan - a person who cares for the sacristy and its contents.
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Thurifer - the server responsible for the thurible during sacred ceremonies.
Torch Bearer (Candle Bearer) - servers who carry the candles during the procession and when
the Gospel is read.
The Church Building
Altar - the place on which the Sacrifice of the Mass occurs; central location for the Liturgy of
the Eucharist
Altar Stone - a piece of natural stone containing the relics of three saints that is inserted in an
altar.
Altar Candles - candles placed upon the altar that are lit for Mass.
Altar Crucifix - a large crucifix displayed behind the altar to remind us that the Mass is a representation of the events that occurred at Calvary 2,000 years ago. St. Joseph’s does not have
one.
Altarpiece - a piece of art or sculpture depicting religious imagery that is suspended behind the
altar.
Altar Rail - a railing that sets the sanctuary apart from the rest of the church and where,
traditionally, people knelt to receive Holy Communion. St. Joseph’s does not have altar rails.
Ambo (lecturn) - place from where the readings of Sacred Scripture are proclaimed during
Mass. May also be used for the homily.
Ambry - a locked cabinet used to store blessed oils used for Baptism and Confirmation.
Baptismal Font - a large font containing holy water for baptisms.
Credence Table - table near the altar on which are located the sacred vessels to be used during
the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
Font (stoup) - a bowl used to hold holy water located at the entrance(s) of the nave
Narthex - the enclosed area leading to the nave of the church (can also refer to the outside,
covered area of the church).
Nave - main part of the interior of a church, where the pews are located.
Paschal Candle - a large, white candle that is blessed and lit at the Easter Vigil; this candle
remains in the sanctuary and is lit for Masses during the Paschal (Easter) season
Platform (predella) - the highest step on which the altar rests.
Sedilia (Priests’ bench) - the chair/bench used by the officiating clergy during Mass. Today it is
often referred to as the Presidential chair.
Reredo - an altarpiece, screen, or other decoration behind the altar that depicts religious art and
imagery. St. Joseph’s does not have one.
Sacrarium - a sink-like receptacle in the sacristy, which drains directly into the ground. It is
used for disposing of water which may have come into contact with sacred things. St. Joseph’s
Church does not have one.
Sacristy - the room where sacred vessels are kept and where the priest and deacon vest when
there is not a separate vestry.
Sanctuary - part of the church building where the altar is located, separated from the nave by
altar rails; the altar, tabernacle, and ambo are located within the sanctuary.
Sanctuary Lamp - a fixture containing a candle, usually suspended by a chain. It is located near
the tabernacle and has a red glass cover. When lit, it indicates the presence of the Blessed
Sacrament in the tabernacle.
Tabernacle - place of reservation for the Blessed Sacrament placed behind the altar.
Vestry - the room where the priest vests for Mass.
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Sacred Vessels, Books, and Linens
Ablution Cup - a small cup with a lid placed next to the Tabernacle to purify the fingers of the
priest or deacon when removing the Blessed Sacrament.
Altar Bell - a bell rung at important parts of the Mass to draw attention to the miraculous events
occurring on the altar
Altar Cards - cards placed on the altar containing the prayers of the Mass. They are only used in
the Extraordinary Form of the Mass.
Aspersorium (pl. aspersoria) - a vessel that holds the holy water used to sprinkle the
congregation during Asperges
Asperges - the rite of sprinkling holy water over the congregation during Mass using the
aspergillum and aspersorium
Aspergillum (pl. aspergilla) - an instrument used to sprinkle holy water.
Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament - a short rite following exposition of the Blessed
Sacrament during which the Eucharist is returned to the Tabernacle
Blessed Sacrament - the consecrated Host and Precious Blood in which the Body, Blood, Soul,
and Divinity of Jesus are present after consecration by a priest
Book of Blessings - a book used by the priest to bless people, places, and objects.
Book of the Gospels - a book containing the gospel readings for Mass; also called the
evangeliary
Burse - 1) a square cloth envelope of the liturgical color of the day, in which the corporal may be
placed when not in use. 2) a small pouch for carrying a pyx, with a cord that hangs around the
neck (called a pyx burse)
Chalice - sacred vessel made of gold or silver (the interior is always gold) that contains the wine
that, after Consecration, becomes the Precious Blood.
Chalice Veil - a cloth in the liturgical color of the day which may be placed over the chalice and
paten.
Ciborium (pl. ciboria) - sacred vessel for holding consecrated or unconsecrated hosts.
Communion Host - a small wafer of unleavened bread, which is consecrated in the Mass so as
to become the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Christ.
Communion Paten - a metal plate, sometimes with a handle, which is held by an altar server to
catch any fragments of the host that might during the distribution of Holy Communion.
Corporal - square linen which is unfolded on the altar during the liturgy of the Eucharist. The
chalice and paten are placed on the corporal. It is folded in a way that captures any fragments of
the host that might have fallen. Before being placed in the laundry, it is soaked, with the water
being poured down the sacrarium. Corporals are larger than purificators.
Cruets - glass vessels that hold water and wine for Mass
Flagon - a pitcher of wine that is brought to the altar by gift bearers when Fr. David celebrates
Mass
Incense Boat - a small vessel that holds incense and a spoon for charging the thurible
Lavabo and Ewer - 1) the small bowl and small pitcher used to wash the priest’s fingers during
Mass. 2) the ritual in which the priest washes his fingers after the Offertory and prior to the
Eucharistic Prayer
Lectionary - a book containing the Scripture readings for Mass.
Luna - round glass case within which is kept a large consecrated host so that it may be inserted
into the center of the monstrance.
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Manuterge (finger towel) - the towel used by the priest to dry his fingers during the lavabo
Monstrance - the sacred vessel which holds the luna with the consecrated host so that the
Blessed Sacrament can be displayed for Adoration.
Pall - square shaped stiff material covered by linen which is used to cover the priest’s chalice
and paten.
Paten - small metal plate on which hosts are consecrated during Mass.
Precious Blood - a term for the Real Presence of Jesus Christ under the appearance of wine.
Purificator - a small, rectangular linen cloth folded three ways, which is used to purify a chalice
after Communion is received. Before being placed in the laundry, it is soaked, with the water
being poured down the sacrarium. Purificators are smaller than corporals.
Pyx - small metal container used to carry the sacred hosts when Communion is taken to the sick
or homebound; it is carried in a pyx burse.
Ritual Books - any official book approved by the Church, containing the rites used in the liturgy
and the administration of the sacraments.
Sacred Vessel - any vessel which is used to hold the Blessed Sacrament or Precious
Blood. Sacred vessels must be made of gold (at least the inside) and blessed prior to being used.
Roman Missal - the liturgical book which contains the prescribed prayers, chants, and
instructions for the celebration of Mass in the Roman Catholic Church
Taper - a long metal instrument used to light the altar candles before Mass.
Thurible - a metal censer suspended from a chain which is used to burn incense during Mass
and Benediction, and other rites.
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