Altar Servers

To serve at the altar, as to sing in the choir, next to the priesthood is the highest privilege a layman can enjoy.

In centuries past, only priests and those ordained to the Office of Acolyte had the privilege of crossing the threshold of the communion rail to assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. The role of acolyte has always been seen as a stepping stone toward the priesthood. However, over time, it became evident that many seminarians who served as acolytes would eventually be ordained priests, leading to a shortage of acolytes to continue this sacred service. Recognizing the need for a solution, Holy Mother Church, in her wisdom, has permitted laymen and boys to take on the responsibilities of this office.

In our community, we recognize the importance of training and educating altar servers to carry out these sacred duties with utmost reverence and precision, for the benefit of all and for the greater glory of God. We strive to equip our altar servers with the necessary knowledge and skills to serve worthily at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

If you are interested in becoming an altar server for the Traditional Latin Mass and participating in this noble ministry, please reach out to Brandon Duncan at [email protected].

Required Training for New Altar Servers

If you would like to become an altar server for the Traditional Latin Mass, we ask all aspirants to watch the following videos and begin learning the Prayers at the Footsteps. This is foundational knowledge for every server and will ensure you are properly disposed to serve at the Lord's altar. 

To be eligible for this honored position, you should have already received your First Holy Communion. More importantly, we are looking for individuals who exhibit self-discipline and a genuine eagerness to learn and master the different roles you might be assigned. We look forward to welcoming you to our team! 

Please note, that your role as an altar server comes with a commitment to be available for either the 7:30 a.m. Low Mass or the 12:30 p.m. High Mass on Sundays. We understand schedules can be challenging, and we appreciate your flexibility in this regard.

• [REQUIRED] How to Serve a Low Mass with Two Servers (Video)
  • Optional: How to Serve a Low Mass with One Server (Video)
• [REQUIRED] Prayers at the Footsteps (PDF)
• Latin Pronunciation for Prayers at the Footsteps (Video)
• [REQUIRED] Parts of the Altar (Image)
• Guide to Liturgical Vessels (Image)
• [REQUIRED] How to Light the Altar Candles (Image)

Training Resources for High Masses

• Missa Cantata Practice for Altar Servers (Video)
• Guide to Priest Vestments (Image)
• How to Construct the Chalice (Image)