Acolytes

OUR ROLE

We are instituted for service at the altar and to assist the Priest and Deacon

Our duty is to prepare the altar and sacred vessels and, if necessary, to distribute the Eucharist to the faithful as an extraordinary minister. If Communion is given under both kinds, in the absence of a Deacon, the acolyte administers the chalice.

Our ways of

Serving the Parish community

  • The functions that the acolyte may carry out are of various kinds and several may occur at the same moment. We perform our main duties while the rest are assisted by other ministers.
  • Through entire Mass celebration, it is for the acolyte to approach the Priest or the Deacon, whenever necessary, in order to present the book to them and to assist them in any other way required, including receiving of the gifts, bringing the bread and wine to the altar, processions using incences, communion distribution, and purifying sacred vessels at the credence table.

Our quality commitments

  • The Acolyte ministry is an important lay ministry within the Liturgy. For this reason training to become an Acolyte will include theology and scripture pertaining to this ministry, and a sound knowledge of the pastoral principles of liturgy as provided by the Church’s documents.
  • Those wishing to become Acolytes are expected to have served at mass for least three months before completing the introductory course drawn up by the Centre for Liturgy and approved by the Archbishop. Where this is not possible, alternative arrangements have to be made with the Centre for Liturgy.
  • Acolyte training takes place at the diocesan level, ongoing formation takes place at the parish level. They should be given regular opportunities for personal reflection and deeper appreciation of the ministry. This may well take place in conjunction with Acolytes from neighboring parishes. It is highly recommended that they attend diocesan workshops conducted each year in regional centers.