A Manual for Acolytes - Dennis G. Michno

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no “right” or “wrong” way to serve. The best rule is that all should be done with dignity and care in the simplest way possible so as not to distract the congregation. Consistent action aids this and helps prevent sloppy carelessness on the one hand and fussiness on the other.

      The patron of those who serve at the altar is Vincent, Deacon and Martyr. He lived in the late third century, was martyred in the year 304, and is commemorated in our calendar on January 22. Vincent is remembered for his love of God, his faithfulness to his bishop, and his unswerving loyalty to his responsibilities. These traits—love, faithfulness, and loyalty—are virtues that all who are privileged to serve at the altar should cultivate. Remember: our purpose is rooted in our love of God, our faithfulness is seen in our willingness to serve responsibly, and our loyalty is demonstrated in how carefully we carry out our duties. Love, faithfulness, and loyalty are the virtues we seek to perfect. The server’s aim is to be as steadfast as St. Vincent.

      This manual may not answer all your questions about serving, but it will assist you in learning the basic principles. Pray, work, and study that you may do all things in love, with faithfulness and loyalty, to the Glory of God.

      Dennis G. Michno +

      Feast of St. Matthias

      February 24, 1981

      All Saints Church

      New York City

      The “MOTTO” used at the title of the preface is from the Rule of St. Benedict: “That in all things God may be glorified.”

       Part One

      An Introduction to Serving

       Chapter 1

      How To Use This Manual

      Part One describes the general procedures, posture, vestments, the way to light and extinguish candles, and includes a check-list for use before the Eucharist.

      Part Two (Chapters 8-9) is the most important in that it deals with the basic duties of the server at the Eucharist. First, there is an outline of the Eucharist. Chapter 9 is then divided into four columns: 1) when the celebrant faces the congregation across the altar; 2) when the celebrant faces the cross (with back to the congregation); 3) helpful illustrations; and 4) optional variants. This part of the manual must obviously be adapted to conform with the practice of your own parish church.

      Part Four contains variants for the Daily Offices and other special liturgies.

      This is followed by Appendix A, which is a Form for the Commissioning of Servers, and Appendix B, which is an outline of the Church Year.

      At the end there is a Glossary or list of terms used in this manual. If you don’t know the meaning of a word, look it up!

      Page numbers in italics throughout this manual refer to The Book of Common Prayer.

      All who serve at the altar should be familiar with The Book of Common Prayer and with the ceremonies and responsibilities described in this manual. Read and study them carefully, and practice so that you are well aware of what is expected of you when you are going to serve.

       Chapter 2

      The Server’s Prayers

      “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Never flag in zeal, be aglow with the Spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. “ (Romans 12:9-12)

       Before the Service

      Be present, Lord Jesus, be present! Grant that I may faithfully and loyally serve you in love and through my service proclaim, “In all things, God be glorified.’’ Amen.

       After the Service

      Glory to you, Lord Jesus, Glory to you! Grant that as I have served in your presence, so I may witness faithfully and loyally to your love in the world and forever proclaim, “In all things, God be glorified.” Amen.

       Chapter 3

      General Instructions

      1 One who serves at the altar, whether as acolyte, crucifer, or thurifer, must always keep in mind that the attention of the congregation is not to be on those ministering but on the liturgy. Therefore, always move discreetly and quietly—and above all with reverence.

      2 Posture:When standing—stand up straight, and if you are carrying a candle or the processional cross make sure that it is straight.When kneeling—put all of your weight on your knees and kneel upright. Do not squat or slouch. It looks terrible!When bowing—There are two types of bows: the solemn and the simple. The solemn bow is used when reverencing the altar, and at other times as directed. The solemn bow is from the waist, inclining the head and shoulders so that if your hands were out in front of you, they would almost touch your knees.The simple bow, at the name of Jesus and on other occasions of reverence, is made with the head, inclining the shoulders slightly.One never bows when carrying a candle or the processional cross.When genuflecting—Genuflection (the bending of the knee) is a sign of reverence to the Blessed Sacrament when reserved in an aumbry, tabernacle, or on the altar. It is done simply and with dignity. Don’t make it look as if you are falling forward or crouching down!Standing up straight, bend your right knee until it touches the floor—the left knee will naturally bend a bit—and keep your back straight. This will take practice, but again your actions are not to be a distraction to the congregation.One never genuflects when carrying a candle or the processional cross.When sitting—sit up straight in the chair, knees together, feet together.

      3 What do I do with my hands?Unless you are carrying something, your hands should always be folded and held above the waist. They should never hang down at your sides or hang folded below the waist.When sitting, either fold your hands in your lap or place them straight out on your knees with palms down. They are not meant to support your head!

      4 The Sign of the CrossThe sign of the cross should always be made reverently and in a dignified manner. Remember, you are signing yourself with the Cross of Christ and this act of devotion should convey that meaning. With your right hand, fingers together, touch your forehead first, then your chest, then your left 2 shoulder, and finally your right shoulder. Keep the hand motions unobtrusive.The use of the sign of the cross by those serving at the altar is determined by the custom of the parish and the direction of the priest. A good general rule is that when the celebrant makes the sign of the cross, you make the sign of the cross; when the celebrant doesn’t, you don’t.

      5 ResponsesOne of your responsibilities is to lead the people in prayers and responses. Therefore, make sure you know them,

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