“So Jesus sent Peter and John, saying, ‘Go and prepare the Passover meal for us that we may eat it.’” (Luke 22:8)
The Liturgy Committee would like to invite parishioners to consider volunteering for the role of Altar Server, which we wish to re-establish.
The role of Altar Server is an important one. Servers assist the priest in the celebration of Mass, allowing him to focus completely on his role of leading the assembly in prayer. They help to ensure the dignified celebration of the Mass. In the past, servers may have been known as “altar boys”, but a contemporary understanding of the role is much broader.
What age can an altar server be?
Altar servers must be fully initiated, that is, have received the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist. Children in Wentworthville Parish, therefore, can be junior altar servers once they have received their First Communion. We are also seeking the support of adult or senior servers who would support and encourage junior servers. Ideally, we would like to have a senior server and two junior servers at each Sunday Mass, and have a roster in place to share the role.
Do altar servers have to be male?
No. We encourage both boys and girls, men and women to serve at the altar.
Will there be acolytes?
Not at this time. Acolytes can only be male and must be ritually instituted by the bishop. For now at least, we would rather focus on a service ministry that is inclusive of all.
Please visit the Altar Servers display in the parish centre and complete an expression of interest form if you wish. Junior servers will naturally need the support of their parents. We hope to begin formation and training of servers in the first week of the next school term (starting 13 October).
Please speak to Fr. Paul or myself if you have any questions about this important ministry.
Liturgy 