An altar server is a lay assistant, traditionally a young person but sometimes an adult who performs vital supporting tasks to help our priest during Mass & other liturgical services.

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Servers carry the cross, the processional candles, hold books of prayers for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and censer, present the bread, wine and water to the priest during the preparation of the gifts or assist him when he receives the gifts from the people, wash the hands of the priest, and assist the priest celebrant as necessary.

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This work can be a sign of their faith and their love for God and for God's people. Yes, you appear in public and your actions are visible, but you are a servant of Jesus Christ in the community of his Church rather than a performer.

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A good server is not only competent in their duties, but is also a humble and sincere person, a good ‘team player’, working in harmony with others, serving for the glory of God, for the work undertaken at the altar is prayer in action.

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Servers receive proper formation before they begin to function, including instruction on the Mass and its parts and their meaning, the various objects used in the liturgy (their names and use), and the various functions of the server during the Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Servers also receive appropriate guidance on maintaining proper decorum and attire when serving Mass and other functions.

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If you feel inspired to assist in this important service please speak to Fr Mark.