Since the Eucharist is the most important thing we do as Catholics, the importance of the ministry of server cannot be over-emphasized. It is an honor and privilege to serve at the altar, assisting the priest and deacon in their responsibilities of leading the people in prayer. But servers are more than simple helpers of the priest and deacon. They are above all servers of Jesus Christ. Servers are part of Christ’s own body, the Church, and they glorify God through their service. Servers are an extension of our faith community’s need to participate actively in the celebration of the Church’s public ministry.

Servers should be mature enough to understand their responsibilities and to carry them out well and with appropriate reverence. They typically begin in 5th grade and normally receive the Eucharist whenever they participate in the liturgy.

Servers receive formation before they begin to function. The formation includes 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. Servers also receive guidance on maintaining proper decorum and appropriate attire when serving Mass. Servers carry the cross, the processional candles, hold the book for the priest when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and censer, assist the deacon when he sets the altar for the Liturgy of the Eucharist, assist the deacon when he receives the gifts from the people, wash the hands of the priest, and assist the priest and deacon as necessary.

We will be conducting a workshop for new servers for OLR on Wednesday, September 13, from 6:30 pm-8 pm and Saturday, September 16, from 8 am-9:30 am. All new servers and at least one parent are required to attend one of the workshops at. Current servers are also welcome to attend. Please contact Deacon Matt with any questions or if you know of a young person who is interested in serving.