Altar Servers: The Young Men Who Assist Catholic Priests
Catholic boys who assist priests during Mass and other liturgical services are known as altar servers. This vital role within the Catholic Church involves more than just carrying things; it's a significant act of service and a pathway to deeper faith formation for many young men. This article explores the responsibilities, benefits, and significance of altar serving in the Catholic tradition.
What are the responsibilities of altar servers?
Altar servers have a variety of responsibilities that contribute significantly to the smooth and reverent celebration of the Mass. These duties can vary slightly depending on the parish and the specific liturgy, but generally include:
- Preparing the altar: This involves setting up the altar with the necessary items for the Mass, such as the missal, candles, and liturgical vessels.
- Assisting the priest and deacon: Servers help the priest and deacon during the various parts of the Mass, such as incense processing, carrying the offertory gifts, and assisting with the distribution of Holy Communion.
- Incense duties: Many servers learn the proper way to handle incense, including censing the altar, the priest, and the congregation.
- Procession and recessional: Servers participate in the processions at the beginning and end of the Mass, carrying crosses, candles, or other liturgical items.
- Maintaining order: Servers help to maintain order and reverence within the sanctuary during the liturgy.
Some larger parishes might have different server roles with more specialized duties.
How old do boys have to be to become altar servers?
The age requirement for becoming an altar server varies from parish to parish. Generally, boys begin serving around the age of 8 or 9 years old, but some parishes may have slightly younger or older requirements. It is best to contact your local parish to find out their specific requirements and application process.
What are the benefits of being an altar server?
Serving as an altar server offers numerous benefits for young men, both spiritually and personally:
- Spiritual growth: Serving at Mass provides a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and a deepening understanding of the Catholic faith. It fosters a sense of reverence and participation in the sacred mysteries.
- Personal development: Serving teaches valuable life skills such as responsibility, discipline, and teamwork. It also provides an opportunity for leadership and service to the community.
- Community involvement: Being an altar server connects young men to their parish community and allows them to contribute to the life of the church.
- Confidence building: Public speaking and interacting with the congregation during services can significantly boost a young person's confidence.
What is the history of altar servers?
The practice of altar servers assisting priests dates back to the early days of the Church. In ancient times, deacons and other church officials assisted in liturgical functions, and this practice gradually evolved into the role of altar servers as we know it today. Over the centuries, the responsibilities of altar servers have changed, adapting to the evolving traditions and practices of the Catholic Church.
Do girls serve as altar servers?
While historically altar servers were primarily boys, many Catholic dioceses and parishes now include girls as altar servers. The inclusion of girls reflects a broader movement within the Church towards greater gender equality and participation in liturgical roles. The decision to include girls rests with individual parishes.
How can my son become an altar server?
To find out how your son can become an altar server, simply contact your local parish priest or the parish office. They will be able to provide information about the requirements, training, and scheduling involved in becoming an altar server. Most parishes have a formal training program to teach young servers their duties and the proper etiquette for liturgical services.
This detailed overview provides a comprehensive understanding of the role of altar servers in the Catholic Church, addressing many common questions related to their age, responsibilities, and the broader context of their participation within the liturgical life of the parish community.
