ALTAR SERVERS
The Altar Servers Ministry plays a vital role in enhancing the beauty and reverence of our liturgical celebrations. Altar servers assist the priest or deacon during Mass, helping to ensure that each celebration is carried out smoothly and prayerfully. From their place near the altar, servers experience the liturgy in a unique and meaningful way.
Who can become an altar server?
To serve in this ministry, individuals must have received First Holy Communion. New servers undergo a short period of training to prepare them for their duties at the altar.
After serving faithfully for at least one year, altar servers may be inducted into the Guild of St. Stephen, the patron saint of altar servers worldwide. This special induction usually takes place on December 26, the feast day of St. Stephen. On this occasion, servers receive a medal to wear while serving.
Responsibilities
- Procession: Carrying the processional cross, candles and incense at the beginning and end of Mass
- Preparation of the Altar: Assisting in preparing the chalice and altar vessels during the Offertory
- Assistance at the Altar: Holding the book (Missal) for the priest, assisting with the washing of hands and handling sacred items
- During the Consecration: Ringing the altar bells at key sacred moments
- General support: Lighting and extinguishing candles and maintaining a reverent presence throughout the liturgy
Our Ministry
At St. Patrick’s Cathedral, our Altar Servers Ministry is made up of both adults and children who serve with dedication and reverence. One of the most enriching times for servers is Holy Week, when they participate in several special liturgical celebrations.
Join us
We warmly invite any parishioner who feels called to serve to become a part of the Altar Servers Ministry. It is a rewarding opportunity to grow in faith while serving the Church.
Contact us
Co-heads of the Altar Servers Ministry:
- Haydn Gill – (233-1364)
- Nathan Tempro – (258-1573)