Duties

1. Be in the chapel area fifteen minutes before the service begins.

2. During the Prelude approach the altar, bow, light the candles on the altar, then the candelabra. During the Easter season take the light from the Paschal Candle.

3. During Confession and Forgiveness kneel beside the altar.

4. After the second lesson, the acolyte (lectern side) carries the Bible from the lectern to the centre of the chancel. The acolyte holds the Bible for the reading then returns it to the lectern. Sit with the children for the story and give children treats.

5. After sharing the peace give the offering plates to the ushers. Then take the communion cups and napkins and place them on the altar. When the ushers come forward take the bread and wine and place them on the altar. Place the offering plates in the credence table.

6. One acolyte follows the Pastor giving out the glasses and the other acolyte follows last collecting the used glasses. Receive communion with the communion assistants.

7. Immediately after the last person has been served, return communion cups and flagon to the credence table and cover.

8. After the dismissal or during the closing hymn, extinguish candles, bow in front of the altar and exit to the chapel area.

General Information

Vesting

It is very important that acolytes be in the chapel area not later than fifteen minutes before the service begins. Albs (robes), cinctures (waist ropes) and neck crosses, as well as the lighters, will be laid out for each acolyte. There will be an assistant to help with vesting.

Why Wear An Alb?

Alb comes from the Latin word alba which means white. This white garment helps us to remember our Baptismal garments. It is also the basic garment worn by worship leaders in Lutheran, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian and Roman Catholic Churches. The alb helps to neutralize the appearance of those who participate in the worship service so that people can focus on the actions that are taking place rather than checking out the clothes acolytes are wearing Sunday morning.

Paschal Candle

The Paschal Candle is the symbol and reminder of the risen Christ. This candle usually stands near the baptismal font during most Sundays in the church year. However, during the season of Easter, it stands near the lectern. During this season, the Paschal Candle is always lit well before the service begins and is left burning at the end of the service. It will be extinguished after most of the people have left.