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MINISTRY OF THE ALTAR SERVER, THE
Caroline M. Thomas Paper, $6.95 48 pages, 5½" × 8½" ISBN 0-89390-712-X Contents Introduction View Bulk Pricing |
Here is a tool to assist in training altar servers for their ministry. The primary purpose of this book is to give the servers an understanding of what ministry is, what liturgy is, and what their role in it is. It gives them tips on how to increase the prayerfulness of the liturgy by the way they move and sit. It explains the concept of ministry and lists what is expected of those who participate in this ministry. It relates the ministry of the server to that of the rest of the ministers, including the members of the assembly. The book presents an overview of the liturgical year as well as brief explanations of the various parts of the Mass, followed by a description of the servers’ role in each part. This is done in general terms, since each parish will have its own specific procedures. There is a brief look at what to expect if serving at special occasions such as baptisms, weddings, funerals, and the Triduum liturgies. One chapter gives an illustrated glossary of the vessels, books, vestments, and other church furnishings. The final chapter offers a sample list of possible items to be included in a commitment form.
Quantity discount pricing:
| 6 – 9 copies | $6.00 each |
| 10 – 19 copies | $5.50 each |
| 20 – 49 copies | $4.75 each |
| 50 – 99 copies | $4.50 each |
| 100 – 499 copies | $4.25 each |
| 500+ copies | $4.17 each |
About the Author
Caroline Thomas has been involved in liturgy planning since the early 1970's, leading to an MA degree from the University of Santa Clara in 1992. She has worked in parishes as the director of liturgy for over 14 years, and continues to be passionate about the potential of the liturgy to transform its participants.
Contents
Introduction
Service at the Altar Is a Ministry
How to Be Present during Mass
Expectations
One Ministry among Many
New Names to Learn
The Liturgical Year
The Order of Mass
Your Role at Mass
Special Occasions
Ideas for a Commitment Form
Introduction
Congratulations! You’ve decided to become an altar server in your parish. There are many reasons young people decide to become servers. Do you know why you made that choice? Perhaps you have an older family member who served at Mass and you thought you’d like to do what they did. Or maybe you see the servers up front every week and decided that it looked like a fun or “cool” thing to do.
Regardless of your reason for making the decision, there will be some consequences. One is that you will develop a new understanding of the Mass since you will become actively involved in a new way. The new understanding of the Mass and the added active role will make being at Mass more interesting and meaningful for you.
Another result of your decision is that you will be helpful during Mass. You can help make everything flow more smoothly. This will make the Mass a better and more prayerful experience for everyone.
So let’s talk about what your decision will mean for you.