Program for Youth Altar Servers, 4th Edition-1

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A PROGRAM FOR YOUTH ALTAR SERVERS
Fourth Edition

Saint Paul the Apostle Parish
2014

A PRAYER FOR ALTAR SERVERS:

Father in heaven, your Son, Jesus Christ
showed his love for you by serving his needy
brothers and sisters.
We now ask you to give us your help as we serve
you and your people.
Open our mouths to praise you in word and song.
Open our ears to hear your word.
Open our hands to do your work well.
Take from our hearts all evil and disturbing thoughts.
Help us know what we should do, and do it well.
Help us serve reverently at your holy altar, and give
you praise and glory now and forever.
Amen.

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CONTENTS

Introduction ....................................................................................... 4
Program Structure .............................................................................. 5
General Principles of Serving ............................................................. 9
Serving Sunday Mass (or other Solemnities) .....................................18
Serving Daily Mass .............................................................................24
Serving at a Funeral Mass ...................................................................27
Serving at a Wedding .........................................................................29
Altar Server Quizzes ..........................................................................30
Answers for Server Quizzes ...............................................................35
Altar Server Muster Games ...............................................................46
Forms .................................................................................................50

This program for altar servers has been written for use in the churches of Saint Paul the Apostle Parish: St.
Gabriel’s, St. John’s, St. Joseph’s, St. Mary’s, St. Matthew’s, and St. Teresa’s. What follows is a working
document that attempts to carry out liturgical training according to the General Instruction for the Roman
Missal, with consideration given to the liturgical tradition and traditions of our rite, in such a way that the
young can be inspired and motivated to enter more deeply into a lifelong journey of faith. Any questions,
comments, or suggestions are welcome and should be addressed to

Saint Paul the Apostle Parish
217 York Street, Bangor, ME 04401
Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
8 December, 2012
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INTRODUCTION: A PROGRAM FOR YOUTH ALTAR SERVERS
A Witness of Faith to the Community
Bringing children up in the faith today is difficult. This program seeks, more than anything, to encourage
the young to fully engage our faith through their service to the Church as ministers of the altar. Serving at
the altar gives the young a hands on, personal experience of God’s work in the liturgy. It also can be an
opportunity for them to work alongside other children and adults and be edified by their witness of faith.
Through their service, youth altar servers provide the parish with an example of service, they witness to the
seriousness and solemnity of the liturgy, and they inspire those who come to Mass with hope for the future
of our Church.

Learning at the Foot of the Altar
This program seeks to provide the basic structure for a process of instruction that will allow youth servers
to continually progress in their knowledge and love of both the liturgy and the tradition of the Church as
they grow older. It seeks to accomplish this by fostering a community that trains and forms the servers
through positive mentoring relationships between youth servers and priests, deacons, sacristans, adult
servers, other youth servers, and other parishioners.

Growing in Service at the Lord’s Altar
As they grow in experience and in dedication to their ministry, altar servers will progress through ranks, or
stages, that encourage and recognize their progress and allow them to take on more responsibility. There
will be both an experience and an educational requirement for the server to progress to the next rank, and
each rank will have specific duties associated with it, and will require more commitment from the server
and his or her family. The ranks will be titled according to the various ways that servers minister at the
altar, beginning with more simple tasks and becoming more complicated as follows:






Cross Bearer
Credence Server
Book Bearer
Thurifer
Master of Ceremonies

Servers of higher rank may often be called upon to function in the liturgy according to a lower rank, e.g. a
Thurifer may function as Book Bearer at Mass most weekends. However, if at all possible, servers should
not carry out the functions of a higher rank until they have reached it.

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PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Formation in the Faith
As mentioned, the primary model of training for altar servers is through mentorship and apprenticeship.
Adult leaders are encouraged to facilitate an environment in which this mentoring method of instruction
occurs by insuring that training:
- Always occurs in the church where teaching can be hands on and tactile.
- Is conducted with small groups in the informal manner of discussion and questions and with a lot of
practical application.
- Focuses on deepening our understanding of and reverence for the liturgy, rather than mere outward
performance.
- Inspires servers to be engaged learners by handing on to them a sense of mystery and awe at the foot
of the altar and by pointing them in the direction of resources to deepen their understanding of the
liturgy.
1. Older servers should be asked to teach the younger servers about their new ministerial role on an
ongoing basis. Older servers must therefore always be encouraged to see the training of new servers as
a part of their ministry. They should never look down on or make fun of younger servers, but should
be models of charity. They should remember that the first shall be last and the last will be first.
2. Various quizzes have been prepared that will help servers to discover more about the liturgy and about
their faith as they grow into their ministry. The quizzes incorporate material that corresponds to the
duties that the server performs during Mass:
Credence Server – This quiz test basic knowledge of the vessels and vestments used for Mass, and also on
the responses and basic postures of the server. Having passed this quiz, they will have shown that they
are ready to serve at the Altar.
Book Bearer – This quiz focuses on the texts used during the liturgy. The server is asked to demonstrate
a basic familiarity with the Bible, with the Missal, and with the liturgical calendar.
Thurifer – Incense has always been the symbol for prayer. In this quiz, the server is asked to recite from
memory some of the basic prayers of the Church.
Master of Ceremonies – The final rank, this quiz asks the server to demonstrate a deeper knowledge of the
liturgy and also some leadership ability in his or her relationships with the other servers. It should not
be an easy quiz to pass.
The quizzes, even though they are serious, should be prepared for in an informal way by the servers as
they come together for training sessions, before and after Mass, or at other times when they are
together with adults or even at home on their own. An atmosphere of curiosity and learning should be
encouraged by the Adult mentors. Servers should also be encouraged to ask the priests any questions,
to seek clarification from other adults and servers, and to take initiative in learning about their work
and about the church.
The quizzes are administered orally to servers by an Adult Leader upon request. All answers must be
correct for the student to rise to the next rank. The server can take a quiz as many times as he or she
would like. Parents and other adults in the parish are encouraged to help servers as they progress in
their knowledge of the liturgy and of the Church by working with them at home.

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3. Servers will be asked to pray together before they begin their ministry during the Mass. When present,
Thurifers and MCs will be asked to lead this prayer. Servers should always be aware that the sacristy is
a place of prayer. They should be especially attentive to being silent when the priest is preparing for
Mass.

Recognition and Rank
As servers progress in their knowledge, experience, and commitment, their growth will be recognized and
rewarded. When a server passes a quiz, the adult who has administered the quiz will mark the date and the
quiz passed in the Server Record and sign as the witness. He or she will then contact the Keeper of the
Ranks, who, provided that the server has served the required number of Masses, will enroll the server in
the next rank. The Server List will be published on a regular basis, indicating all servers, the number of
Masses they have served, and their rank. As soon as a server’s new rank has been published, he or she may
wear the cross that bears the cord with the color corresponding to their rank and carry out the ministry of
that rank. The colors are as follows:
Cross Bearer – Black
Credence Server – Green
Book Bearer – Purple
Thurifer – Red
Master of Ceremonies – Gold
The Server’s rank is indicated in their vesture in order to give them recognition for their achievement and
also to inspire others to pursue service to the altar. However, the sign of their rank is purposefully
understated so as to not distract from the servant character of their ministry. Servers’ achievements will
also be acknowledged by the community.
A brief description of each of the ranks follows:
Cross Bearer
Requirements:
- Should have received 1st communion and confirmation, or be older than 7 years old.
- Should have parents or other parishioners who agree to support their ministry and bring them at 15
minutes early to Mass on the days when they are serving.
- Should faithfully attend Mass every week, whether they are serving or not.
- Has successfully completed initial server training.
Duties:
- To learn from the other servers and from adult leaders, priests, and deacons about the Mass.
- To serve at Masses when they are scheduled, serving as cross bearer unless they are unable to carry
the cross, in which case they should simply process in and out and perhaps help with the duties of the
book bearer if they are able. They should pay close attention to the older servers and to learn the
basic terminology and flow of Mass.

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Credence Server
Requirements:
- Should have served at 10 liturgies with no major problems, successfully completed the credence
server training, and have passed the credence server quiz.
Duties:
- To serve when scheduled, carrying out service as credence server 2 or cross bearer if needed.
- To deepen knowledge of the liturgy, the liturgical year, and the books that are used in the liturgy.
Book Bearer
Requirements:
- Should have served at 40 liturgies with no major problems, successfully completed the book bearer
training, and have passed the book bearer quiz.
Duties:
- To serve when scheduled, carrying out service as book bearer, credence server 1 or 2, or cross bearer
and helping to ensure that the missal is prepared for Mass and that the candles and other preparations
in the sanctuary are prepared before Mass.
Thurifer
Requirements:
- Should have served 80 liturgies with no major problems, successfully completed the thurifer training,
and have passed the thurifer quiz.
Duties:
- To serve when scheduled, carrying out service as thurifer, credence server 1, book bearer, or cross
bearer as needed. To learn and practice and execute the preparation and use the thurible during
liturgies. The thurifer is responsible for leading prayer among the servers before liturgies begin.
Master of Ceremonies
Requirements:
- Should have served 120 liturgies with no major problems
- Should be 13 or older.
- Should show leadership ability and a willingness to serve the least of the parish.
- Must have 5 documented hours of training younger servers.
- Must have served at 3 hours of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, 3 baptisms, 3 weddings, 3
funerals, and must have assisted a parishioner in bringing communion to the sick on 3 occasions.
- Must have 3 hours of service to the poor or needy of the parish, such as visiting the sick, feeding the
hungry, or other works of mercy approved by the server chaplain.
- Must meet with the pastor for an interview and be approved for promotion prior to being admitted
to the rank.
Duties:
- To serve at Masses when scheduled, carrying out service as MC, thurifer, book bearer, credence
server 1, or cross bearer as needed. To help care for and maintain the sanctuary and sacristy.
- To teach the younger servers by example and to help with training meetings throughout the year.
- To help in planning, rehearsing, and orchestrating servers for larger liturgies during the year in
conjunction with sacristans and priests involved.

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A Community of Servers and Adult Mentors
As they serve at Mass and attend training sessions and other gatherings, it is critical that servers and their
adult mentors gradually get to know one another and develop a sense of fraternity in their common
ministry. Outside of Mass, servers and adult mentors will gather quarterly for training sessions and will
also gather for a summer and winter social gathering each year.
Quarterly Trainings:
In order to move up to the next rank, a server must successfully complete the training required for that
ministry. Training sessions will be held on the first Sundays of December, March, June, and September.
After an initial prayer and large group discussion about new practices or areas of difficulty that apply to all
servers, adult mentors will break servers into small groups to train them according to their rank. Servers
will also be encouraged to attempt to pass the quiz for the rank at that time. Adult mentors will be
responsible for documenting the servers who complete each training and getting that information into the
office so that it can be used for liturgical scheduling.
Social Gatherings:
Adult Leaders and older servers are encouraged to organize social events throughout the year to build
community and help servers get to know each other better. The servers should get together at least once in
the summer and once in the winter to go on outings together. On the Feast of Corpus Christi, servers will
come forward at their respective churches after the prayer after communion at one of the Masses of that
Solemnity to receive a blessing from the Priest and recognition from the parish for their ministry.

Adult Roles and Responsibilities
Adult server mentors are critical to the success of this program. Most adults are very busy, and so the
responsibilities of adults are spread out and tailored to fit the lives of most parents who will already be
coming early to Mass to bring their server. Adult involvement is organized as follows:
Adult Server Coordinators
Each parish liturgy should ideally have 1 or more adults who commit to being present early for Mass on a
regular basis to help train servers, administer quizzes, ensure that paper work is being properly submitted
and maintained, and provide accountability and feedback. Server coordinators will also be responsible for
training servers at quarterly training sessions, helping to organize social events, and will meet annually or
semi-annually with the server chaplain and keeper of the ranks to ensure that the program is functioning
well.
Keeper of the Ranks
One adult volunteer is needed to collect all Server Mass Records each month and document service and
rank achievement in the Server Ranks excel file. The updated file should be delivered to all of the sacristies
of the parish on a monthly or bi-monthly basis to inspire and encourage servers in their ministry.
Server Chaplain
A parish priest or deacon is essential to the functioning of the program. Ideally, one of the parish priests
will be able to serve in this function. Duties are simply to oversee the quality of serving and identify
successes and challenges, to call the adult server coordinator meeting on a semi-annual basis, to organize the
annual and Server Muster, and to organize any occasional trainings or social events for all servers.

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GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF SERVING
Comportment
Servers carry out a very important and visible function during the celebration of the Church’s liturgy.
By the way in which they carry themselves and the reverence they show to the mysteries being celebrated,
servers are able to inspire a congregation to deeper faith and reverence. It is therefore absolutely critical
that servers understand that they lead the tone of the liturgy by what they do and how they do it. They
must be especially attentive to the following:
1. Charity above all things. The server must treat others kindly and with compassion. He or
she must always go out of his or her way to defer especially to those who are weak or disabled.
He or she should always be looking to serve or lend a hand. It is never appropriate for a server
to talk back to adults, to be rude, or to make fun of or demean anyone. This kind of behavior
will simply not be tolerated.
2. Hospitality. Those who enter the sacristy or the church and encounter a server should
immediately feel welcomed. Servers should go out of their way to help those who come to
them with a request or question. They should be quick to explain and refer anyone in need to
those who can help them.
3. Dignity. The server should understand the dignity of his or her calling. He or she should
carry himself or herself with confidence. Steps should be deliberate and confident, not mousy
or shy.
4. Recollection. The server should recognize that first and foremost, the liturgy is a work of
prayer. Conversation in the sacristy should center around the faith or around carrying out the
various tasks of the liturgy. Small talk, gossip, and other conversations that do not help us to
focus on God’s presence in our midst should be avoided.
5. Prayerfulness. During the liturgy, the server should be actively engaged in what is
happening, regardless of whether he or she is involved in direct service. Servers should
respond confidently during Mass, should enthusiastically sing the songs, hymns, and other sung
parts of Mass, should listen attentively to the readings, and quietly pray during times of silence.
6. Joy. It is important that the server not be overly bubbly or superficial, but at the same time a
friendly demeanor and smile are very important during service of the liturgy. If serving is not
something that brings joy to the server, perhaps he or she needs to take some time away.

Dress
Servers should dress in a way that is suited to ministry at the altar: Boys: long pants, collared shirt, dark
closed-toe shoes. Girls: Pants, dress or long skirt, appropriate shirt or blouse (not T-shirt), appropriate
shoes. The idea is that the server should dress as they would for the wedding of a good friend.

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Posture
The three primary positions during the Mass are standing, sitting, and kneeling. In the standing and kneeling
positions, servers’ hands should be held in a praying position, as demonstrated to them. When sitting the
hands should be folded in front of them.
Note: Servers should assume the same posture as the rest of the people at all times, standing, sitting, and
kneeling when the people do, unless they are engaged in some form of service to the altar.
When walking, servers should walk with confidence directly to where they need to go. They should not
rush or look hurried, and certainly not run. Nor should they, however, doddle or mope.

Genuflection and Bowing
Note: When carrying things like crosses, sacred vessels, books or candles, servers do not
genuflect or make profound bows, but instead stop and face the object or person of reverence before
continuing on their way.
Genuflections
We genuflect in adoration when we pass in front of the Blessed Sacrament, either reserved in a tabernacle
or upon the altar, or when it is being transferred from the altar to the tabernacle. Servers genuflect when
entering and leaving the sanctuary at the beginning and end of Mass when the tabernacle is located in the
sanctuary. A genuflection is made by bending the right knee to the ground, signifying adoration.
Bows
Regarding bowing: a bow signifies reverence and honor shown to the persons themselves or to the signs
that represent them. There are two kinds of bows: a bow of the head and a bow of the body.
1. A bow of the head is made when the three Divine Persons are named together and at the names of
Jesus, of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of the Saint in whose honor Mass is being celebrated. A bow
of the head is also made to the priest when he is being served during the Mass.
2. A bow of the body, that is to say a profound bow, is made to the altar, and during the Creed at the
words “and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man.”
Note: If the tabernacle is in the sanctuary of the church, during the celebration of Mass the server bows
profoundly to the altar when passing between the altar and tabernacle.

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Holding a Book for the Priest
When the missal is brought to the priest, if possible, it should be opened to the correct ribbon. To be
prepared, the Book Bearer should find the appropriate ribbon before the missal is needed and mark the
place with his or her finger. During the Opening and Closing prayer, the server should not wait
for the priest to say “Let us pray,” but should anticipate the prayer and move into position
as follows:
Opening Prayer:
During normal Sundays or Solemnities, the Server approaches the chair during the words of the
Gloria “For you alone”.
During weekday Masses or on Sunday Masses during Advent and Lent, unless instructed otherwise,
the server should approach the priest during the conclusion of the penitential rite (“May almighty
God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life).” Do not wait for “Let
us pray.”
Closing Prayer:
The Server approaches the priest immediately after he stands after communion.
When holding the book, a short Book Bearer should keep the missal against his or her chest, making sure to
keep the ribbon down the center of the book so that the text is not blocked. His or her fingers should also
be kept to the bottom of the book so that they don’t block the text. A taller Book Bearer should stand to
the side, and hold the book in front of the priest at waist height, again making sure that the ribbon and
fingers are not in the way of the text. The book should be held at a reasonable distance (more or less 1
yard) from the priest so that he can move his arms and read the text easily.
Note Well: When holding the book for the opening or closing prayer, the Book Bearer
should make no movement until the people have concluded the prayer by responding
“Amen.” Only at that point should the Server return to his or her place.

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Various Considerations during the Offertory
Putting together and taking apart the Main Chalice
The main chalice will be prepared by the sacristan and set on the credence table. When
brought to the altar, the Credence Servers will need to take it apart and spread the
corporals, pall, and purificator on the altar. During communion, the Credence Servers will
need to put the main chalice back together in the same way: used purificator first, then pall,
then folded corporals as shown:

Unfolding and Folding a Corporal
A corporal is the square white piece of cloth that is used underneath the Eucharist to collect
any fragments or spills during the liturgy. It is therefore very important that it be
folded and unfolded correctly so that it is able to carry out this function.
To unfold the corporal it is placed folded flat on the altar in the center of where it is to be
unfolded. First one side, then the other is opened. The top is then folded up, and then the
bottom folded down, so that the corporal is spread with the cross facing the front edge of
the altar. To fold up the corporal at the end of Mass, the exact same procedure is followed,
except in reverse.

12

Water and Wine
When water and wine are brought to the priest, the handles should be brought facing the priest so that he
can easily grasp them. If the cruets have stoppers, they should be removed by the server before handing
them to the priest.
The Lavabo
When servers bring the lavabo with pitcher and towel, they should make sure to hold the lavabo low so that
the priest does not have to raise his hands too high. Water should be poured slowly until the priest raises
his hands, signaling to stop. A small amount of water is normally sufficient.

Approaching the Altar
When approaching the altar, servers should move in a reverent way together from their places. They should
come directly to the side of the altar, and not make the Priest come out to them. They should not come
behind the altar, however. They should line up with the credence side of the altar as shown:

Using Incense
Incense may be used at Mass during the following times:
The entrance procession and incensing of the altar
The reading of the Gospel
The offertory
The consecration
The exit procession
Imposing Incense
When imposing incense in the thurible (when incense is put in the thurible), the following procedure is
always followed:
1. The Thurifer hands the priest the boat.
2. On single chain thuribles: the Thurifer uses his or her free hand to lift the thurible from just
below the middle of the chain to lift the thurible to waist height. He or she then reaches down
with the hand that is holding the end of the chain, and opens the thurible.
On four chain thuribles: the Thurifer uses his or her free hand to pull the central chain up a short
way, opening the thurible. He or she then grasps all chains below the middle and lifts the
thurible to waist height.

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3. After the priest has imposed incense into the thurible, the server closes the thurible and then
lowers it back to normal position. Make sure to remember to take the boat back from the priest!
4. If the priest is going to use the incense right away, the thurible is handed to the priest,
otherwise the Thurifer goes to his or her position.

Swinging the Thurible
The thurible is swung in order to increase air flow so that the coals will burn hot and also to disperse the
incense into the air.
Note: Great care must be used when swinging the thurible so that it does not knock into anyone or anything.
The thurible is always swung from the right hand. During processions, the Thurifer swings the thurible back and
forth while walking. There are various patterns of swinging the thurible which can be learned from the
priest as the Thurifer becomes more practiced at handling the thurible, but the thurible should always be
swung reverently and with prudence.
At the Offertory, during the Consecration, and during Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, the Thurifer is
asked to incense the Priest, the People, or the Blessed Sacrament. He or she should therefore practice
swinging the thurible so that it is comfortable.
To incense, the Thurifer cannot be holding the boat, and so incense must already have been imposed in the
sacristy (as in the case of incensation during the Consecration), or the boat must be handed to an
accompanying Server (as in the case of the Offertory or Exposition).

14

When incensing, the right hand is used to grasp the chain slightly below the middle. The thurible is then
lifted from the middle and then swung by that same hand in the direction of the person or thing to be
incensed. The priest will teach this to the Thurifer.

Before Mass
The Thurifer removes 1-3 pieces of quick-lite charcoal from their package five minutes, and not earlier,
before Mass. Holding the charcoal over a fire-proof surface with provided tongs, the Thurifer lights the
patterned side of the charcoal from underneath with a lighter. After it has caught, the Thurifer may blow
on it for a minute to be sure it is going well before placing it into the thurible. Additional pieces may be lit
in the same way and placed in the thurible as well. The Thurifer may then pick up the thurible and boat,
close it, and step to a corner where he or she swings the thurible gently back and forth to improve air
circulation while waiting for the procession to begin.
Note Well: The Thurifer must take care that his or her clothes do not ever come into contact with the thurible, since it
will get quite hot. The Thurifer must always remember that the Thurible is not a toy. He or she should be very careful
when swinging the thurible that no one is in the area, and that he or she is not in danger of striking anything. If
something or someone is struck in such a way that a coal falls out onto the floor and shatters, the servers and sacristans
should know where the flat piece of metal and a metal dust pan is located that can be used to scoop up the scattered coals
and place them into the metal can used for spent coals.
Entrance Procession and Incensing the Altar
Immediately before the procession begins, the Thurifer approaches the presiding priest at the rear of the
church with the thurible and boat so that he may impose incense for the procession. After incense is
imposed, the Thurifer takes his place in the procession and waits for the signal from the Presider before
beginning. He walks slowly down the aisle, leading the procession, pausing to bow his head before entering
the sanctuary. After he enters the sanctuary, the Thurifer proceeds behind the altar and waits to the side for
the presiding priest. After he has kissed the altar, the priest takes the thurible from him and the Thurifer
steps to the side and back as the priest circles the altar. The server steps forward to retrieve the thurible
after the priest has finished circling the altar and then goes immediately to the sacristy, or to a place near the
sanctuary where the thurible is to be kept during the liturgy. After hanging up the thurible, he opens it and
adds one piece of charcoal before returning to the sanctuary to take his place.
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Proclamation of the Gospel
If the priest so chooses, incense may be used during the Proclamation of the Gospel. In this case, the
Thurifer goes to retrieve the thurible and boat at the beginning of the second reading. After checking that
the coals are burning well, he or she then stands discreetly to the side of the sanctuary until after the reading
is finished, at which time, he or she goes to the chair where incense is imposed by the priest. After incense
is imposed, the Thurifer moves directly to the back right side of the altar, where he or she is joined by the
Candle Bearers, if they are joining the procession. After the priest has lifted the Book of the Gospels, the
Thurifer leads the way to the Ambo. There, he or she stands directly behind the priest. After greeting the
people, the priest turns, takes the thurible, incenses the Book of the Gospels, and then returns the thurible
to the Thurifer. The thurible is swung gently while the Gospel is read and then, at it’s conclusion, the
Thurifer takes the thurible back to the sacristy or place where the thurible is kept. If incense is to be used
during the Offertory and Consecration, another coal may be added at this time.
Offertory
When the General Intercessions have concluded, the Thurifer goes to retrieve the thurible. After the priest
has said the prayer of blessing over the wine, but before he has washed his hands, the Thurifer approaches
the altar. The priest imposes incense and the Thurifer gives the priest the thurible before moving to the
side of the sanctuary. There he leaves the boat on the credence table or in some other discrete place.
After the priest has incensed the gifts and altar, the Thurifer comes to the altar (no longer carrying the boat)
and is handed back the thurible. The Thurifer then takes three steps back, bows to the priest and then
incenses him three times, careful that he is not too close to his face, and bowing again afterward. If there are
concelebrants, the Thurifer then moves to a central location and incenses them three times, bowing before
and after incensing. The Thurifer then goes around and down to the foot of the altar facing the people, he
or she then incenses the people, again bowing before and after. The Thurifer then returns the thurible and
boat to their places and goes to his or her place.
Consecration
If incense is to be used during the consecration, immediately after the incensing of the people, the Thurifer
and two or four Credence Servers go to the place where the thurible is kept. The Thurifer puts incense
into the thurible and the Credence Servers light processional candles. During the singing of the ‘Holy,
Holy’ they process from a side door to the foot of the altar (not going through the sanctuary as they
approach). The Thurifer processes between the two or four Credence Servers. They kneel at the foot of
the altar. At the elevation of the host and the chalice, the Thurifer and Credence Servers bow and then the
Thurifer incenses the Blessed Sacrament three times. After the Great Amen, the servers stand, bow, and
then proceed back to the place where the thurible is kept. After placing the thurible back in its place, and
processional candles snuffed, they return to theirs.
Exit Procession
When the priest sits down after distributing communion, the Thurifer goes to retrieve the Thurible. He
places a small amount of incense into the thurible and then discreetly waits at the side of the sanctuary.
After the dismissal, the Thurifer goes down to his place and waits before leading the procession out.

16

After Mass
After the procession, the Thurifer goes immediately to the sacristy, where he or she dumps whatever
remains of the coals into the metal container used for that purpose, ensuring that nothing remains inside of
the thurible. The thurible and boat are then returned to their places. A window may be opened if there is a
lot of incense in the sacristy.

Using Holy Water
At Weddings, Funerals, and at some Masses, especially during the Easter Season, holy water is used during
the liturgy. As a rule, one of the Credence Servers is normally in charge of the Holy Water. Before Mass
he or she should make sure that the aspersorium is reasonably full and that the aspergillum is ready. The
aspersorium may then be placed on the credence table, or in some other convenient place.
When the Holy Water is to be used during the liturgy, the Server should take the aspersorium with
aspergillum to the Priest. If the water is to be blessed, the Server should stand in front and to the side of
the Priest while the water is being blessed. He or she should then accompany the Priest as he uses the holy
water, standing to his side, and staying close at hand so that the Priest can refill the aspergillum as he needs.

17

SERVING AT SUNDAY MASS (OR OTHER SOLEMNITIES)
Duties before Mass
Upon arrival 15 minutes before Mass, servers should go to the sacristy and sign in on the Server Mass
Record. They should then put on either an alb and cincture or cassock and surplice. Conversation may
center around preparation for the liturgy or learning other aspects of the faith, adults or older servers may
want to review certain aspects of serving at this time. After the priest arrives, however, any conversation
should be kept to a minimum so that the priest can prepare himself for Mass in a prayerful space.
Ten minutes to Mass time the Book Bearer should light all appropriate candles in the sanctuary.
If incense is to be used during the Mass, it should be lit at this time by the Thurifer.
Five minutes to Mass time, the Cross Bearer retrieves the cross, and (if used) Credence Servers retrieve
processional candles.
The servers accompany the priest and other ministers to the rear of the church for the entrance procession
when the priest is ready, taking with them the cross and any candles, incense, or other articles that may be
used during the procession.

Entrance Procession
The order of the procession is as follows:
-

Thurifer with thurible and boat (when incense is used).
Cross-bearer
Credence servers with candles (can be up to 4 or even 6 on high solemnities).
Book Bearer
Reader
Priest(s)

The lead Server should always guide the procession at a moderate pace. Servers and other ministers
should maintain a distance of 2 or 3 pews separation while in procession, depending on the
size of the church.

18

At the foot of the Altar
-

If there is a Thurifer, he bows and proceeds to the altar, where he stands to the back side of the
altar waiting for the priest.

-

Cross bearer (and candle-bearers during solemnities) pause briefly at the foot of the altar and
proceed to place the cross (and sometimes candles) in their places without waiting at the foot
of the sanctuary for the other ministers.

-

Servers who are not carrying anything make a profound bow together to the altar if the tabernacle
is not behind the altar, or they genuflect together if the tabernacle is immediately behind the altar.
They then proceed immediately to their places.

-

The Priest bows or genuflects, depending on the placement of the tabernacle, and then proceeds to
kiss the altar. If there is incense, he then places incense in the thurible and incenses the altar before
handing the thurible back to the Thurifer. If there is no incense, he proceeds immediately to his
chair.

Introductory Rites
Penitential Rite
Occasionally, the Priest may wish to use the missal during the penitential rite, in which case, he will let the
Book Bearer know before Mass. This would especially be the case when the sprinkling rite is to be used
during the season of Easter, for example. If the sprinkling rite is to be used, one of the Credence Servers
brings the vessel of water to the priest immediately following the sign of the cross and greeting. He or she
then accompanies the priest as he blesses the people. When finished, he or she returns the holy water to its
place.
Opening Prayer
The Book Bearer brings the book to the presider for the opening prayer. Please see the section on holding
the book for the priest in the General Principle of Serving Section on page 11. The Book Bearer then
returns to his or her assigned position for the readings.

Gospel Procession (only on special solemnities)
The Thurifer retrieves the thurible and boat from the sacristy during the second reading.
After the second reading, but before the Alleluia has begun, the Thurifer walks to the Priest, who imposes
incense. As soon as this is done, the Alleluia begins.
The Thurifer then proceeds behind the altar to the ambo side, where he is joined by the candle bearers who
pick up their candles and then stand behind the altar facing the people on either side of the book of the
gospels. After the Priest has picked up the book of the gospels, they process to the ambo, Thurifer leading
and candle bearers shoulder to shoulder next. At the ambo, the Thurifer stands behind the Priest and
candle bearers stand on either side, facing in, toward the Priest as he reads the gospel. After the gospel is
read, the Thurifer returns to the sacristy with the thurible and the candle bearers return the candles to their
stands. All then go to their places where they are seated for the homily.

19

Preparation of the Altar
All Servers should sit quietly and attentively listen to the readings from Sacred Scripture and the homily.
After the creed and general intercessions, when the priest sits down, the Credence Servers should prepare
the altar. Servers should not hurry during this preparation, and should remember to bow to
the altar when approaching or leaving without anything in their hands. The procedure for
setting the altar is as follows:
- Credence Servers go to the credence table. Credence Server 1 picks up the main chalice, Credence
Server 2 picks up the purificators.
- Credence Server 1 sets the main chalice on the edge of the credence side of the altar. Credence
Server 2 sets the purificators on the altar next to the side corporal (see diagram).
- Credence Server 1 takes the first corporal from the chalice and carefully spreads it at the
dead center of the altar, right up to the edge of the altar. At the same time, Credence Server
2 takes the second corporal from the main chalice and spreads it to the right of the
center corporal, not overlapping it, but touching it (no space between).
- Credence Server 1 takes the pall from the main chalice and places it above the side corporal. Then takes
the purificator from the main chalice and places it next to the chalice (see diagram below).
Both servers bow reverently (simultaneously) to the altar and then return to the credence table.
- The Credence Servers bring all chalices that have been prepared from the credence table to the altar.
These are placed on the side corporal in the upper right corner. Both servers bow reverently to the
altar and then return to the credence table.
- The Credence Servers bring all patens that have been prepared to the altar and place them on the side
corporal surrounding the chalices (see below). Credence Servers reverently bow to the altar and then
return to their places, where they remain standing until they go down with the priest to
receive the gifts.
- After both corporals have been set, the Book Bearer brings the Missal to the altar. The book bearer
opens the Missal to the proper ribbon and places it on the upper-left side of the center corporal as
shown in the diagram.

20

Preparation of the Gifts
Where it is the tradition for the Cross Bearer to process up with the gifts, the Cross Bearer should be
attentive when the collection is being taken up and after the ushers are about two thirds of the way through
the church, should take the processional cross and process down the center aisle to those who will carry the
gifts. Once the collection is finished and the gift-bearers are ready, the Cross Bearer leads them in
procession to the altar.
When the priest stands and goes to the foot of the altar to receive the gifts, the Credence Servers follow
him and position themselves to either side of the priest. The priest will give the bread and wine to one of
the servers and the collection to the other.
The server who receives the collection should take it to the credence table. He or she then picks up the
water from the credence table and joins the second Credence Server at the side of the altar.
The server who receives the bread and wine proceeds to the credence side of the altar. He or she does
not place the bread or wine on the altar, but waits for the priest to arrive. The server then
gives the priest the bread while holding the wine in his or her other hand.
After the blessing over the bread, the priest will turn to the servers. Cruets with handles should be given to
the priest handle first. First he will take the wine and place some in the main chalice. Then he will take the
water and place a small amount in all of the chalices. Both servers wait for the priest to hand the
water to the second server before reverently bowing and returning to the credence table
where they quickly pick up the bowl, pitcher, and towel (lavabo) and return to the priest to wash his hands.
One server carries the pitcher and bowl, the other carries the towel. The bowl should be held low and
a minimal amount of water used. The Credence Servers bow reverently to the priest and then return
vessels to the credence table and stand at their places for the beginning of the Eucharistic Prayer.

The Eucharistic Prayer and Distribution of Communion
The Eucharistic Prayer
If incense is to be used during the Consecration, the Credence Servers and Thurifer go to the sacristy
immediately after the offertory preparations. They then process out and kneel at the foot of the altar during
the Holy Holy. The Blessed Sacrament is incensed by the Thurifer at the same time the bells are rung.
After the Great Amen, the Thurifer and Credence Servers stand and then proceed to the sacristy.
During the Eucharistic Prayer, servers should be especially attentive. They should not squirm or fidget or
do anything that would distract the people. They should confidently speak the responses and sing the parts
of the Mass with the congregation. Servers who are not occupied with a particular task should kneel at the
same time as the rest of the congregation in front of their seats, regardless of whether or not they have a
kneeler in front of them
At the consecration, where it is customary to ring bells, they are rung when the Priest elevates the host and
again when he elevates the chalice. The bells are rung three distinct times to recall the action of the Trinity
at that moment. Because of the variation of the placement of the bells from church to church, servers must
be instructed on this by the mentors from their particular church.

21

During the ‘Our Father,’ servers should stay standing at their chairs. They should exchange a sign of peace
with each other and with the priest if he comes to them. At certain Masses, it may be necessary for servers
to bring extra empty patens to the altar immediately following the sign of peace to be used for the
distribution of communion. The priest will let the servers know about this before Mass.
Reception of Communion
After the priest has received communion and given it to the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion,
servers should wait standing at their seats for the ministers to approach them with communion. If for some
reason they do not, servers should discretely join the rest of the faithful to receive before returning to their
places. Servers that are not clearing the altar should kneel during the reception of
communion until the priest sits, when they may also sit.
Clearing the Altar
As communion is being distributed, the altar should be cleared by the Credence Servers. The missal should
be brought back to the credence table, or if it is to be used for the closing prayer, the Book Bearer may
retrieve the missal from the altar and bring it to his or her chair. One of the Credence Servers should place
the purificator over the main chalice, then the pall. The right side corporal should then be folded and
placed on top. The center corporal is always to be left on the altar. If there is a lid to a ciborium,
or if a vessel is on the altar that contains either the precious body or blood, the servers should place it on the
center corporal until the priest returns. If the priest has not finished distributing communion when the altar
is clear, Credence Servers should return to their places and kneel in prayer.
When the priest returns to the altar after distributing communion, the Credence Servers should wait,
kneeling, until the priest takes the blessed sacrament to the tabernacle. After the priest has reposed
the Blessed Sacrament, the Credence Servers stand and come to the altar to collect any patens that were
used to distribute communion. They should never stack patens inside of one another. Patens
should be brought back to the credence table and placed beside the chalices that were used for the
distribution of communion. The main corporal is then folded and brought back to the credence table last.
Servers should make sure that the credence table is neat and that the chalices are covered with their
purificators so that flies do not get into them.

Closing Prayer and Exit Procession
Closing Prayer (Prayer After Communion)
The Book Bearer should prepare the missal so that when the priest stands after communion he or she can
walk immediately to him before he says: "Let us pray." Again, Book bearers should hold the book steady
and pages should be kept flat, fingers out of the way of the text so that the priest can read the prayer easily.
At the conclusion of the prayer, the Book Bearer should join the people in responding “Amen” before closing
the missal and returning it to its place.
Occasionally there may be solemn blessing that the priest wishes to give, in which case the server should
stand to the side of the priest facing him until the priest is ready to give the blessing. The Book Bearer in
this case would return to his or her seat after the blessing.

22

Exit Procession
As soon as the priest gives the final blessing and dismissal, the Cross Bearer (and Thurifer if
incense is being used) should go and retrieve the processional cross (and thurible). If the
Credence Servers processed in with candles, they should retrieve them from the altar as soon as they see the
Cross Bearer begin to move, then they should follow him with the other servers into the center isle. After
they have entered the isle three or four pews, all servers should turn and face the sanctuary and wait for the
priest to join them. When the Priest bows or genuflects at the foot of the altar, all either bow or genuflect
with him (unless they are carrying something), and then turn to process down the isle.
The servers return to the sacristy. All face the crucifix and bow saying the following:
Leader: “Praised be Jesus Christ”
All servers and others respond: “Now and forever.”
If a priest or deacon is present, all follow his lead. If not, all follow the lead of the senior server.

Duties After Mass
The Book Bearer should extinguish all candles using the proper tool. He should be careful not to smash the
wicks, and should clip them and care for them as needed.
Albs or Cassock and Surplus should be hung neatly on hangers.

23

SERVING AT DAILY MASS
Duties before Mass
Upon arrival the server should go to the sacristy and sign in. He or she should then put on either an alb and
cincture or cassock and surplice. After the priest arrives, any conversation should be kept to a minimum so
that the priest can prepare himself for Mass in a prayerful space.
Ten minutes to mass time a server should light all appropriate candles in the sanctuary.

Entrance Procession
At the priest’s word, the server(s) lead the priest to the foot of the altar.
No cross or candles are processed into Mass.
At the foot of the sanctuary:
-

Server(s) make a profound bow to the altar if the tabernacle is not behind the altar, they genuflect if
the tabernacle is immediately behind the altar. They then proceed immediately to their places.

Introductory Rites
Occasionally, the priest may wish to use the missal during the penitential rite, in which case, he will let the
server know before Mass.
At most daily Masses, however, the Book Bearer should go to the priest during the conclusion of the Kerie
(“May Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and lead us to everlasting life”). Please see page
11 for more information.

Preparation of the Altar
Servers should sit quietly and attentively listen to the readings from Sacred Scripture and the homily. After
the creed and general intercessions, servers should prepare the altar:
-

The main chalice is placed on the credence side of the altar. The corporal from the main chalice
is then spread in the exact center of the altar. The pall is placed to the back of the corporal
and the purificator to the credence side of the altar next to the main chalice. The missal is then opened
to the appropriate place and set kitty corner on the upper left corner of the main corporal.

-

The two side chalices are then brought from the credence table to the altar with their purificators.
Chalices are placed in the upper right corner of the corporal (see the following page).

-

The server then brings the paten with bread on it and stands at the side of the altar waiting for the
Priest. After giving the priest the bread, the server returns to the credence table and brings back to
the priest the wine and water cruets (without caps). He or she then waits for the priest to hand them
both the empty water and wine vessels and then goes back to the credence table where he or she
quickly picks up the bowl, pitcher, and towel (for the lavabo) and returns to the priest to wash his
hands. The bowl should be held low and a minimal amount of water used. The server then returns
to his or her seat.

24

The Eucharistic Prayer and Distribution of Communion
During the Eucharistic Prayer, servers should be especially attentive. They should not squirm or fidget or
do anything that would distract the people. They should confidently speak the responses and sing the parts
of the Mass with the congregation.
During the Eucharistic Prayer, servers should kneel with the rest of the congregation at their seats,
regardless of whether or not they have a kneeler in front of them.
After the priest has received communion, servers should line up behind the altar to the side of the altar
where they are sitting. The priest or other Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion will then bring
them communion.
As communion is being distributed, the altar should be cleared. The missal should be brought back to its
place. The purificator should be placed over the main chalice, then the pall. The center corporal is to
be left on the altar. If there is a lid to a ciborium, or if a vessel is on the altar that contains either the
precious body or blood, the server should place it on the corporal until the priest returns.
After the priest has reposed the Blessed Sacrament, the server should return to the altar, fold the main
corporal and bring it and any remaining vessels to the credence table. He or she should make sure that the
credence table is neat and that the chalices are covered with their purificators so that flies do not get into
them.

25

Closing Prayer and Exit Procession
The server should prepare the missal so that when the priest stands after communion he or she can walk
immediately to him before he says: "Let us pray." Again, Book Bearers should hold the book steady and
pages should be kept flat, fingers out of the way of the text so that the priest can read the prayer easily. At
the conclusion of the prayer, the Book Bearer should join the people in responding “Amen”
before closing the missal and returning it to its place.
As soon as the priest gives the final blessing and dismissal, the server goes to the foot of the altar to wait for
the priest. When the priest arrives, the server either bows or genuflects with him, and then turns to lead
the procession out with the priest.

Duties After Mass
The server should extinguish all candles using the proper tool. He or she should be careful not to smash the
wicks.
Albs or Cassock and Surplus should be hung neatly on hangers.

26

SERVING AT A FUNERAL MASS
Two servers are the minimum, Four is ideal: a thurifer, two credence servers, and a book bearer.
The duties of the servers are the same as normal daily Mass, except the for the following:

Before Mass
In addition to lighting the normal candles, the paschal candle, which the sacristan should have placed in
front of the altar, should also be lit by the Cross Bearer.
The Thurifer should light charcoal five minutes before the Mass begins.
If there are only two servers, the sacristan places the holy water vessel with the aspergillum in an easily
accessible place near the entrance to the church.

Reception of the Body and Entrance Procession
At the priest’s word, the thurifer takes up the cross and leads the two credence servers with candles,
followed by the book bearer who carries the aspersorium, followed by the Priest. They go directly from
the sacristy to the foot of the altar. There, all make the appropriate sign of reverence as if they were leaving
the sanctuary after Mass and proceed to the back of the church.
At the back of the church, the Cross Bearer proceeds to the far end of the body and turns to face the altar.
The two credence servers with candles stand to each side of the casket. The book bearer stands beside the
priest with the holy water. After the casket is sprinkled, the servers then turn on the priest’s cue and begin
the procession to the sanctuary very slowly, cross bearer followed by credence servers with candles, followed
by book bearer with the aspersorium.
When they reach the sanctuary, they make the normal sign of reverence at the foot of the altar and go
immediately to their places.
The Book Bearer immediately puts the aspersorium down and takes the Missal to the priest for the Opening
Prayer.

Liturgy of the Word and of the Eucharist
The Mass then continues as normal for the Liturgy of the Word.
During the Liturgy of the Eucharist there are two departures from a normal daily Mass:
1. Incense is normally used for the offertory. This should be prepared as normal by the server.
An additional coal should be placed in the thurible when it is returned so that it will be hot
enough for the Commendation.
2. Normally the precious blood is not distributed to the people, so there is only the main chalice
that will need to be placed on the altar.

27

Closing Prayer and Commendation
After the altar is cleared during the distribution of communion, the Thurifer goes and retrieves the incense
and waits at the side of the sanctuary.
After the Prayer After Communion, there may be words of remembrance. When the words of
remembrance are finished, or when the priest stands and begins to go down to the casket or urn, the book
bearer retrieves the processional cross and credence servers candles from the altar and slowly walk down to
the casket or urn, Cross Bearer leading. The Cross Bearer walks to the foot of the casket (the far end from
the sanctuary) and turns to face the altar. Credence servers stand on either side of the casket or urn with
candles. The Server holding the thurible stands beside the priest. After the Invitation to prayer, the
Thurifer approaches the priest so that he can impose incense in the thurible.
After incensing the body and crucifix, the priest hands the thurible back to the Thurifer and takes back the
Funeral Ritual. The Thurifer then walks slowly past the casket and around the Cross Bearer so that he or
she now leads the procession. The priest says the Final Commendation (if there are three servers, then the
Book Bearer holds the Funeral Ritual for him) and then dismisses the people.

Procession to the Hearse
As the music begins, the priest walks past the casket and turns toward the altar. All wait while the funeral
home staff turn the casket around. Then all make the appropriate sign of reverence toward the sanctuary
before turning to begin the procession out. They should walk very, very slowly.
When they reach the outside door of the Church, servers should stop and turn around, facing the casket.
The pall will then be removed by funeral home staff. After it is removed, the servers turn back around and
process out the front doors of the church. They should walk all the way to the hearse. All stay in position
until the back door of the hearse is closed. They then walk in silence back to the sacristy. Duties after Mass
are the same as for a normal Mass.

28

SERVING AT A WEDDING
One server is the minimum, two is ideal: a Cross Bearer and a Book Bearer. In large weddings, two
Credence Servers could be added. The duties of the servers are the same as normal daily Mass, except the
for the following:

Before the Wedding
The sacristan should make sure that the aspersorium with the aspergillum is in an easily accessible place in
the sanctuary.

Entrance Procession
Normally the priest and servers do not process from the back of the church during a wedding. A cross is
not normally processed in. In most cases the servers and priest go directly from the sacristy to the foot of
the altar followed by the best man and groom. There, all make the appropriate sign of reverence like at a
normal Mass and then go to their places.

The Rite of Marriage
After the Homily, the priest will invite the bride and groom forward. The server should bring the Wedding
Ritual to the priest and open it to the proper page, or hold it after the priest opens it to the proper page.
The aspersorium should be positioned nearby if there is only one server, or if there is a second server, he or
she may bring the aspersorium and stand on the other side of the priest. After the rite is concluded with the
exchange of rings, the server(s) go back to their places.

Liturgy of the Word (and of the Eucharist)
The Wedding then continues with the Liturgy of the Word. If it is a wedding Mass, then during the Liturgy
of the Eucharist, servers carry out the duties normally assigned to Credence Servers. There are two
departures from a normal daily Mass:
1. Normally the precious blood is not distributed to the people, so there is only the main chalice
that will need to be placed on the altar.
2. The server(s) receive communion after the newly married couple.

Exit Procession
After the bride and groom with their wedding party have processed out, the priest goes and kisses the altar,
and the servers go to the foot of the altar where they make the appropriate sign of reverence with the priest
before processing directly to the sacristy.

29

QUIZZES, AND RANKS
Forms for candidates should be made available in the parish offices and in the back of the church building.
Forms should be collected and filed by a designated Adult Leader.
Quizzes should be administered orally to servers by Adult Leaders when convenient. The quiz material is
not secret. In fact, servers should be encouraged to look over the quizzes so that they will have an idea
about what is important to learn as they continue. Quizzes and answers to the questions on quizzes should
be kept in a binder in the sacristy or made available to the servers in some other way. As much as it is
possible, an atmosphere of curiosity and learning about faith should be encouraged in the sacristy and among
the servers.
During the quiz, however, the server should give responses from memory without any
outside help. If he or she cannot give the correct answer for any question on the quiz in a
reasonably short amount of time, the quiz is to be stopped. The server may try again on
another day. The quiz may be taken as many times as the server likes, and as frequently as
the server requests.
The main motive for the quizzes is not to create an arbitrary hoop to jump through, but to encourage the
servers to learn about the liturgy and about their faith. If a server does not get everything on a quiz the first
time, he or she has not failed, but simply has more to learn before progressing to the next rank. There are
never to be grades given, nor are servers to be made to feel inferior if they do not move up a rank as they
were hoping. They simply have more to learn.
If the server passes the quiz, answering every question asked in a reasonable amount of time, the adult
administering the quiz fills out an Altar Server Quiz Completion Form, recording the name of the server
and date that the quiz was passed and signing as a witness. He or she then places the form in the collection
or otherwise delivers it to the Keeper of the Ranks. Upon hearing from an adult that a server passed a quiz,
the Keeper of the Ranks will then make the proper notation and enroll the server in the next rank if he or
she has served the requisite number of Masses. Otherwise, the Keeper of the Ranks will wait until the
requisite number of Masses has been reached before enrolling the server in the next rank. Each month a
current Book of Servers with their ranks and Masses served will be placed in each church sacristy.

30

QUIZ FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE RANK OF CREDENCE SERVER
Questions are to be asked and answered orally without any hints or outside help

What is a:
Chalice
Paten
Alb
Cincture
Stole
Chasuble
Purificator
Corporal
Missal
Book of the Gospels
Pall
Presider’s Chair

Cruet
Ciborium
Lavabo
Credence Table
Tabernacle
Paschal Candle
Thurible
Processional Cross
Boat
Ambo
Altar

Please demonstrate the following postures and when they are used:
Server Standing
Head bow
Profound bow
Sign of the Cross
Genuflection

Please finish or respond to the following parts of the Mass:
The Lord be with you…
I Confess…
Glory to God…
Holy, Holy, Holy…
Lamb of God…
Lord, I am not worthy…
We ask this through Christ our Lord…

Server must have served at 10 Masses in order to move to this rank.

31

QUIZ FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE RANK OF BOOK BEARER
Questions are to be asked and answered orally without any hints or outside help
What are the two major parts of the Mass?
What happens during:
The Entrance Rites?
The Liturgy of the Word?
The Universal Prayer?
The Preparation of the Gifts?
The Eucharistic Prayer?
The Communion Rite?
The Concluding Rites?
What are the four liturgical colors?
What are the five liturgical seasons?
Please list these holy days in order of importance: a Memorial, a Solemnity, an Optional
Memorial, a Feast.
How many days are in Lent? In Easter?
What are the 6 holy days of obligation in most dioceses in the United States?
What are the 5 books of the Pentateuch?
How many books are in the Old Testament?
How many Psalms are there?
What are the names of the 4 gospels?
How many books are in the New Testament?
How many readings are read during the Liturgy of the Word on Sunday?
Please find for me in the Missal:
A Collect from the Proper of Time
The Penitential Act
A Prayer over the Offerings from the Common of Martyrs
A Preface for a Sunday in Ordinary Time
A Eucharistic Prayer
A Solemn Blessing
A Prayer after Communion from the Proper of Saints
Server must have served 40 Masses to move to this rank.
32

QUIZ FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE RANK OF THURIFER
Questions are to be asked and answered orally without any hints or outside help

Please recite the following prayers from memory:
Our Father
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Angelus
Magnificat
Memorare
Anima Christi
Prayer to St. Michael
The Apostles Creed
Hail Holy Queen
What are the mysteries of the Rosary:
Joyful
Luminous
Sorrowful
Glorious
What are the 14 stations of the cross?

What are the 5 hours of prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours?

Server must have led the server prayer before Mass 10 times before moving to this rank.
Server must have served 80 Masses to move to this rank.
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QUIZ FOR ENTRANCE INTO THE RANK OF MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Questions are to be asked and answered orally without any hints or outside help

Please set the ribbons in the Missal for tomorrow’s Mass and prepare the lectionary for the
reader. Please explain your choices.
Please define the following terms:
Ambry
Presider
Acclamation
Neophytes
Aspergillum
Cantor
Cope
Crosier
Dalmatic
Miter
Monstrance
Vespers
Humeral Veil

Alleluia
Nuptial Blessing
Catechumen
Breviary
Chrism
Oil of the Sick
Oil of Catechumens
Oil Stock
Celebrant
Concelebrants
Elect
Baptismal Font
Lectionary

Narthex
Nave
Orans
Pastoral Council
Parish Commission
Baptismal Register
Pyx
Altar Stone
Rubrics
Sanctuary
Amen
Sanctuary Lamp
Octave

Server must have served 120 liturgies to move to this rank.
Must be 13 or older.
Must show leadership ability and a willingness to serve the least of the parish.
Must show documentation, signed by an Adult Server Coordinator,
attesting to the following ministry:
-

5 documented hours of training younger servers.
3 hours serving at Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Altar service at 3 baptisms.
Altar service at 3 weddings.
Altar service at 3 funerals.
Assistance to a parishioner in bringing communion to the sick on 3 occasions.
3 hours of service to the poor or needy of the parish, such as visiting the sick,
feeding the hungry, or other works of mercy approved by the server chaplain.
Final Requirement:

Must meet with the pastor for an interview and be approved for promotion prior to being
admitted to the rank.

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ANSWERS FOR ALTAR SERVER QUIZZES
1. Credence Server Quiz Answers
Identify and know the meaning of the terms below:
Chalice: The cup used to hold the wine that is consecrated to become the Blood of Christ.
Paten: A plate or bowl used for the bread that will be consecrated and distributed at Mass.
Alb: A loose-fitting, floor‐length white garment that may be worn by all liturgical ministers.
Ordained ministers (bishops, presbyters and deacons) wear stoles and outer vestments in
addition to the alb as signs of their office. Catechumens receive an alb, during their initiation,
as a symbol of baptism.
Cincture: A cord or band with which alb and cassock are girded.
Stole: A liturgical vestment worn as sign of ordained ministry. Bishops and presbyters (Priests)
wear the stole over both shoulders. Deacons wear the stole over the left shoulder, clasping it
on the right side at the waist.
Chasuble: The long, circular vestment worn over the alb and stole by Priests and bishops when
celebrating the Mass.
Purificator: A small cloth used to cleanse the rim of the chalice during the distribution of Holy
Communion.
Corporal: The square piece of fine linen covering the center of the altar upon which is placed the
chalice and paten.
Missal: The book of prayers and instructions for the presiding celebrant used during the liturgy.
Book of the Gospels: The book which contains the Gospel texts, from which the Priest or deacon
proclaims the Gospel of the day.
Pall: A cover for a chalice or a coffin.
Presider’s Chair: The place where the celebrant sits during the Liturgy. It expresses his office of
presiding over the assembly and of leading the prayer of those present.
Cruet: The pitcher‐like containers for holding the water or wine to be used at Mass.
Ciborium: A vessel used to hold the consecrated bread for the distribution of the Body of Christ
during communion.
Lavabo: The bowl used by the presiding celebrant for washing his hands before the Eucharistic
Prayer at Mass.
Credence Table: The small side table, usually near the altar, for placing liturgical objects (e.g.
cruets, lavabo, chalice, corporal, etc.)
Tabernacle: A locked and anchored repository in which the Eucharist is reserved. A sanctuary
lamp burns near the tabernacle to indicate Christ’s presence. Hosts that have been
consecrated at Mass are stored in the tabernacle for distribution to the sick and for
Eucharistic Adoration.
Paschal Candle: A special candle lighted on Easter Eve and extinguished on the feast of the
Ascension.
Thurible: The metal sensor used in liturgies suspended from one or more chains in which
incense is burned.
Processional Cross: The cross carried in the processions.
Boat: The vessel which contains the incense and is carried by the Thurifer during the liturgy.
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Ambo: The table of the Word, usually a reading stand, used to proclaim the Scriptures during the
Liturgy of the Word at each liturgical celebration.
Altar: A table on which the sacrifice of the Mass is offered to God. It is the center of importance
in the place where the Mass is celebrated.

Demonstrate the Following postures and when are they used:
Server Standing
Head bow
Profound bow
Sign of the Cross
Genuflection
(Please refer to the chapter posture and gestures for altar servers, page 10)

Finish or respond to the following parts of the Mass:
The Lord be with you… And with your spirit.
I confess to almighty God… and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in
my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done, and in what I have failed to do, through my
fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary everVirgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God.
Glory to God… in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will.
We praise you, we bless you, we adore you, we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King, O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
Holy, Holy Holy… Lord God of hosts.
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Lamb of God… you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
Lord, I am not worthy… that you should enter under my roof, but only say the word and my
soul shall be healed.
We ask this through Christ our Lord… Amen.
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2. Book Bearer Quiz Answers
1. Two major part of the mass: Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist
2. What happens during:
The Entrance Rites: Priest and ministers process to the sanctuary. All begin with the sign
of the cross, the priest greets the people and introduces the mass. He then leads the
assembly in the penitential act, the Gloria (on Sundays and feast days outside of Advent
and Lent) and opening collect.
The Liturgy of the Word: On Sunday there are two readings from the Old and New
Testament and a responsorial Psalm. The priest then reads a passage from one of the four
Gospels and gives a homily on the Scripture readings. All stand to profess our faith by
reciting the creed. Then the priest leads the people in the Universal Prayer.
The Universal Prayer: Prayer of intercession for all humankind. The priest
invites all to pray, and then the deacon or a reader offers a number of intercessions and
we (the assembly) respond by asking God to hear and to grant our request.
The Liturgy of the Eucharist: Prayer of Thanksgiving and Sanctification (to make holy,
to consecrate). It is the high point of the Mass, when the bread and wine become Christ’s
body and blood so that we can become his body, the Church. It begins with the
preparation of the altar, including the offertory procession and the prayers over the
offerings of bread and wine. Then follows the Preface prayer, then the Sanctus, the
Eucharistic Prayer, including a Memorial Acclamation, which concludes with the
doxology and great Amen.
The Communion Rite: Begins immediately following the great Amen. After praying the
Lord’s Prayer, the people exchange a sign of peace. Then all recite the Lamb of God and,
after the priest’s invitation, confess their unworthiness to receive the Lord (Lord, I am not
worthy…). The ministers and people then receive the body and blood of the Lord and
return to their places for a time of prayer. The priest brings this time of prayer to a close
with the Prayer after Communion.
The Concluding Rites: A brief rite which consists of the celebrant’s/priest greeting, a time
for announcements and then the final blessing and dismissal. The ministers then process
out of the church.
3. What are the four liturgical colors:
White: To be used for solemnities and feasts of Our Lord and Our Lady (Mary), in the
festive seasons and on days specified. Gold and Silver may also be worn on white days.
Red: To be used for Pentecost, on Passion/Palm Sunday, Good Friday at votive Masses of
the Holy Spirit, the Precious Blood and the Passion, for feasts of the apostles and
evangelists and for feasts of martyrs.
Violet: To be used for Lent and Advent and may be chosen for All Souls Day, funerals
and requiem Masses.
Green: To be used for the Season of the Year/ Ordinary Time.
4.What are the five liturgical seasons: Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter and Ordinary time.

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5. Please list these holy days in order of importance: a Memorial, a Solemnity, an Optional
Memorial, a Feast. Optional Memorial, Memorial, Feast, Solemnity.
6. How many days are Lent? 40 days (excluding Sundays)
In Easter? 50 day feast of the Resurrection of Christ
7.What are the 6 holy days of obligation in most dioceses in the United States?
Christmas Day
The Ascension of the Lord
The Solemnity of the Mother of God (January 1)
The Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Dec. 8)
The Assumption of the Blessed Mother (Aug. 15)
All Saints (Nov. 1)
8.What are the 5 books of the Pentateuch? The first five books of the Bible: Genesis, Exodus,
Leviticus, Numbers and Deuteronomy
9.How many books are in the Old Testament? 46
10.How many Psalms are there in the Bible? 150
11.What are the names of the 4 gospels? Matthew, John, Luke and Mark
12.How many books are in the New Testament? 27
13.How many readings are read during the Liturgy of the Word on Sunday? 2 Readings from
the Old and/or New Testament, a Psalm and the Gospel.
14.In the Roman Missal find:
A Collect from the Proper of Time (Missal pp.137-509)
The Penitential Act (Missal p.515)
A Prayer over the Offerings from the Common of Martyrs (Missal pp.1052-1070)
A Preface for a Sunday in Ordinary Time (Missal pp. 572-587)
A Eucharistic Prayer (Missal pp.635-662, pp.758-797)
A Solemn Blessing (Missal pp. 674-684)
A Prayer after Communion from the Proper of Saints (Missal pp.799-1027)

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3. Thurifer Quiz Answers
Please recite the following prayers from memory:
Our Father
Our Father, Who art in heaven,
Hallowed be Thy Name.
Thy Kingdom come.
Thy Will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary
Hail Mary,
Full of Grace,
The Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit
of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary,
Mother of God,
pray for us sinners now,
and at the hour of death.
Amen.

Glory Be
Glory be to the Father,
and to the Son,
and to the Holy Spirit.
As it was in the beginning,
is now,
and ever shall be,
world without end.
Amen.

The Angelus
The Angel of the Lord declared to Mary:
And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.
Hail Mary, full of grace...
Behold the handmaid of the Lord:
Be it done unto me according to Thy word.
Hail Mary . . .
And the Word was made Flesh:
And dwelt among us.
Hail Mary . . .
Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God,
that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts; that we, to whom
the incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by His
Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection, through the same Christ Our
Lord. Amen.
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The Magnificat
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior
for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed;
the Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him
in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm,
he has scattered the proud in their conceit.

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness
and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him,
we humbly pray,
and do thou,
O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world
seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for he has remembered his promise of mercy,
the promise he made to our fathers,
to Abraham and his children for ever.

Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that
never was it known that anyone who fled to thy
protection, implored thy help, or sought thine
intercession was left unaided.
Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O
Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come,
before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O
Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my
petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me.
Amen.

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Anima Christi
Soul of Christ, sanctify me
Body of Christ, save me
Blood of Christ, inebriate me
Water from the side of Christ, wash me
Passion of Christ, strengthen me
O good Jesus, hear me
Within Thy wounds hide me
Suffer me not to be separated from Thee
From the malicious enemy defend me
In the hour of my death call me
And bid me come unto Thee
That I may praise Thee with Thy saints
and with Thy angels
Forever and ever
Amen

The Apostles Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
Creator of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day He rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of God the
Father Almighty.
He will come again to judge the living and
the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Holy Catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and life everlasting.
Amen.

Hail Holy Queen
Hail, holy Queen, mother of mercy, our life,
our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we
cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee
do we send up our sighs mourning and
weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then,
most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy
toward us, and after this our exile show us
the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O
clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.

The Mysteries of the Rosary:
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
1. The Annunciation
2. The Visitation
3. The Nativity
4. The Presentation
5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
1. The Resurrection
2. The Ascension
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
4. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
5. The Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
1. The Agony in the Garden
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
3. The Crowning with Thorns
4. The Carrying of the Cross
5. The Crucifixion

THE LUMINOUS MYSTERIES
1. The Baptism in the Jordan
2. The Wedding at Cana
3. Proclamation of the Kingdom
4. The Transfiguration
5. Institution of the Eucharist

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The 14 Stations of the Cross
First Station:
Jesus is condemned to death

Eighth Station
Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem who
weep for him

Second Station
Jesus Takes up his Cross

Ninth Station
Jesus falls for the third time

Third Station
Jesus falls for the first time

Tenth Station
Jesus is stripped of his garments

Fourth Station
Jesus meets his Mother

Eleventh Station
Jesus is nailed to the Cross

Fifth Station
The Cyrenian helps Jesus carry the Cross

Twelfth Station
Jesus dies on the Cross

Sixth Station
Veronica wipes the face of Jesus

Thirteenth Station
Jesus is taken down from the Cross and
given to his Mother

Seventh Station
Jesus falls for the second time

The 5 hours of prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours
Morning Prayer
Daytime Prayer
Evening Prayer
Night Prayer
Office of Readings

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Fourteenth Station
Jesus is laid in the tomb

4. Master of Ceremonies Quiz Answers
Please define the following terms:
Ambry: The receptacle that houses the holy oils (Chrism, Oil of the Sick, Oil of Catechumens).
Presider: The leader the liturgical prayer. The presider may be either an ordained minister or lay
minister. For certain rites, an ordained priest is required (e.g. Eucharist, Anointing). For
certain other rites, a lay presider is permitted (e.g. Liturgy of the Hours).
Acclamation: A response by the liturgical assembly taking the form of a shout of joy or praise.
The Gospel Acclamation and Great Amen are examples of acclamations.
Neophytes: The proper term for the newly initiated members of the Christian community.
Aspergillum: A vessel or device used for sprinkling holy water during special blessings. The
ordinary type is a metallic rod with a bulbous tip which absorbs the holy water and
discharges it at the motion of the user’s hand.
Cantor: The liturgical minister who leads singing during the liturgy.
Cope: A very long mantle or cloak, open in front and fastened at the breast with a band or clasp.
It may be of any liturgical color and is worn by a deacon, priest, or bishop for certain
liturgies other than Mass.
Crosier: The bishop’s pastoral staff typically fashioned in the shape of a shepherd’s staff. Along
with the miter, the crosier is a sign of episcopal office.
Dalmatic: The sleeved outer garment worn by a deacon during liturgical services.
Miter: The ceremonial high-hat worn by a bishop during liturgy as a sign of episcopal office.
Monstrance: a silver or gold stand that contains a circular window surrounded by a sunburst of
rays. A large host is placed inside the circular window during Adoration of the Blessed
Sacrament. Monstrances may also be used to house the relic of a saint for veneration.
Vespers: Also called evening prayer, vespers is part of the Liturgy of the Hours, the series of
psalms, prayers and readings for different parts of the day that Catholic priests and deacons
are obligated to pray daily.
Humeral Veil: A long oblong piece of silk or vestment material often richly ornamented or
embroidered, worn over the shoulders and covering the hands of the priest as he gives the
blessing with the Sacred Host in the monstrance at benediction. It is also used when sacred
vessels with their reserved contents are carried from one tabernacle to another or in
procession.
Alleluia: A Hebrew term for "praise God" [Yahweh] used to accompany the Gospel procession.
Alleluia is associated especially with Easter and not used at all during Lent. The Alleluia
before the Gospel is always to be sung. Otherwise, it is to be omitted.
Nuptial Blessing: The formal blessing of the newlywed couple, given at Mass after the Lord's
Prayer. The priest gives the blessing with extended hands and prays for husband and wife
that they may love one another, be faithful to each other, witness to others by their Christian
virtue, and be blessed with children to whom they will be good parents.
Catechumen: A catechumen is an unbaptized person over 7 years of age preparing for
sacramental initiation (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist). All catechumens are received
into the Order of Catechumens (through the Rite of Acceptance into the Order of
Catechumens that is part of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults). Catechumens may
marry in the Church and receive a Christian burial.
Breviary: The book(s) for praying the Divine Office, or Liturgy of the Hours.
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Chrism: A holy oil consecrated for use in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy
Orders, the dedication of a church building and the consecration of an altar. Commonly
abbreviated S.C. on oil stocks.
Oil of the Sick: The olive oil blessed by the bishop of a diocese for use in the sacrament of
anointing of the sick. Commonly abbreviated O.I. (oleum infirmorum, oil of the sick) on oil
stocks used by priests.
Oil of Catechumens: One of the three holy oils for the administration of the sacraments. It is
used in the ceremonies of baptism, from which its name is derived, the catechumen being the
person about to receive the sacrament. It is also used in the consecration of churches, in the
blessing of altars, and in the ordination of priests. Commonly abbreviated O.C. on oil stocks.
Oil Stock: A portable cylindrical metal case with three compartments, each labeled for the holy
oil it contains.
Celebrant: The one who presides over the assembly and consecrates the Eucharistic Sacrament.
Concelebrants: Those Priests and bishops who join the Celebrant in celebrating the Mass.
Elect: The proper name for catechumens, after they are chosen for initiation (i.e. "elected") via
the Rite of Election (first Sunday of Lent).
Baptismal Font: The structure containing holy water, used to baptize. Typically the font is an
immersion pool or bowl on a pedestal. The shape and placement of the font connote a
theology of initiation (e.g. rebirth, dying and rising).
Lectionary: The lectionary contains all the Scripture readings for Mass for the entire liturgical
year. There are three cycles of Sunday readings (A, B, C) and two for weekday readings (I,
II) as well as readings indicated for other rites (e.g. funerals, religious professions, etc.).
Narthex: The vestibule or entrance hall of a church building.
Nave: From the Latin word for "ship," referring to the ark of salvation; hence, the body of the
Church, where the faithful are during the public liturgy; approaching the church from the
entrance the divisions are: narthex, nave, choir, and sanctuary.
Orans: A posture for prayer where the arms are lifted upward and slightly outward, palms up.
The presider uses the orans posture at liturgy during the collect and other presidential prayers
(e.g. parts of the Eucharistic prayer).
Pastoral Council: A group of members of the parish who advise the pastor on parish matters;
also called a Parish Council.
Parish Commission: A group of members of the parish who work to organize and promote the
ministry of the parish in a particular area. There are five parish commissions: Faith
formation, worship and spirituality, parish life, family ministry, and justice and charity.
Baptismal Register: The record of baptism to be made by the priest who performs the baptism. It
is kept in the parish archives. To be listed in the register are the names of those who are
baptized, of the one who administers the baptism, of the parents, and of the sponsors; also the
place and date of the baptism. The pastor has custody of the baptismal register.
Pyx: The container for taking consecrated bread to those who are sick or homebound.
Altar Stone: A small flat stone, consecrated by a bishop, that contains in a hollowed out cavity
relics of two canonized martyrs. The stone is usually inserted in the center of an altar that is
not entirely consecrated. It constitutes the altar proper and can be moved from one altar table
to another. The host and chalice during the Sacrifice of the Mass are placed on it.
Rubrics: From the latin "ruber," meaning red. The directions for the conduct of church services,
often indicated in red lettering in liturgical books.

44

Sanctuary: Often, the sanctuary is understood as the area of a church building where the altar,
ambo and chair are located. It is more broadly understood as the entire worship space—the
place of holiness and communion with God, that contains all the ministers of the liturgy—
assembly, presider, choir, readers, etc.
Amen A Hebrew term meaning "let it be so" used by the liturgical assembly after prayers, to
express agreement with and affirmation of the prayer. The Great Amen concludes the
Eucharistic Prayer.
Sanctuary Lamp: The wax candle or oil lamp burning near the tabernacle indicating the
presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
Octave: The seven days following a feast with the feast day itself included. Prior to the Second
Vatican Council octaves were numerous in the Latin Rite. A commemoration was offered at
Mass and in the Divine Office each day of the octave, and precedence given over any other
feast. The octaves now observed in the universal Church are those of Christmas and Easter.

Please verify that other criteria for the quiz have been met, then send word to the pastor so that a
meeting can be set up with the server.

45

SERVER MASS RECORD CHURCH:_________________ MONTH/YEAR_____________
To be strictly Observed:
If server arrives less than 10 minutes before Mass (without good reason), is dressed improperly,
or does not meet the other expectations of servers listed in the server manual,
the Adult Server Coordinator may not sign the server in for that Mass.

Mass Date / Time

Server Name

Position Served

Adult Signature

At the end of the month, please put in the collection basket or email to
[email protected]
Server Mass totals were entered into the Server Rank on _______________________(Date).
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Server Training/Quiz Documentation Form
Training Session Date:_____________________
Adult Server Coordinator:_____________________________
Adult Server Coordinator:_____________________________
Server Name

Training Session Completed
(credence server, book bearer,
thurifer, MC)

Quiz
Passed?

Adult Signature

(Y/N)

ADMINISTERING THE QUIZ
In order to pass a quiz, the server is to be asked all questions listed on the quiz by an adult server coordinator,
sacristan, deacon or priest. The server may have a reasonable amount of time to remember answers, but should not
be prompted or coached by the adult administering the quiz. All questions on the quiz must be answered or
demonstrated to a reasonable degree of proficiency in order to pass the quiz. If a server answers incompletely or
does not know the answer, he or she should study the problem question and take the quiz again at the next possible
opportunity. There is no limit to the number of times a server may take a quiz.

SUBMITTING NOTICE TO THE KEEPER OF THE RANKS
Upon successful completion of a quiz, this form should be signed by the adult who administered the quiz and placed
in the collection basket or brought directly to the parish office, so that it can be entered into the server ranks by the
Keeper of the Ranks.

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FORM FOR THOSE WHO WISH TO BE ALTAR SERVERS
Name of Server:
DOB:

Sacraments Received:

 Baptism

 Confirmation  1st Communion

Parent(s) of the Server:
Mailing Address:

Phone:
Email:

Mass Normally Attended by Family:

_________(time) _____________________(church)

 Would only be able to serve at the above Mass
 Would be able to serve at the following other Masses in the Parish
___________(time) ___________________________(church)  regularly

 on occasion

___________(time) ___________________________(church)  regularly

 on occasion

 Would like to be invited to serve at other parish liturgies:
 funerals

 weddings

 other liturgies and prayer experiences

 major parish-wide Masses

EXPECTATIONS OF THE SERVER:
st

1. Must have received 1 communion and be older than 7 years old.
2. Must have parents or other parishioners who agree to support their ministry and bring them
15 minutes early to Mass on the days when they are serving.
3. Must attend Mass every week, including weeks they are not serving.
4. Must dress in a way that is suited to ministry at the altar:
Boys: long pants, collared shirt, appropriate dark closed-toe shoes.
Girls: Pants, dress or long skirt, appropriate shirt or blouse (not T-shirt),
appropriate dark closed-toe shoes.
5. Must be ready and willing to come quarterly training sessions on Sunday afternoons
throughout the year with other altar servers and to occasional social events.

Please bring your completed form to the sacristy before Mass and give it to the priest.
Thank-you for your service in this very important ministry!

Saint Paul The Apostle Parish - MMXIV
48

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