Altar Servers

 

 

Altar Servers are part of a very ancient tradition in the liturgical life of the church. The server is a member of the assembly who assists the priest and deacon during the Eucharist and other liturgical ceremonies so that the liturgy can be conducted with grace and reverence. Servers are active and full participants in the celebration with the understanding that they are first and foremost members of the assembly. The server expresses this by singing, praying and keeping silence along with the rest of the assembly.

Servers are expected to be appropriately prepared, committed to giving their time and talent to the parish, and willing to serve God’s people.

Servers carry the cross and the processional candles. They hold the book for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar. They carry the incense and censer and present the bread and wine along with the water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts or assist him when he receives the gifts from the people. Servers assist in the washing of hands by the priest, and assist the priest and deacon as necessary.

In the wake of the Covid crisis, St. Mark has invested in a multi-camera broadcast system, to bring the liturgical celebrations to the home bound. Those interested in learning how to operate cameras, switcher and software are encouraged to sign up. Altar Servers will be encouraged to participate in the livestream ministry.

Contact Jaime Perez with questions about the Altar Server Ministry. Email [email protected] or call 213-842-6064.