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, we invite you to reach out to Brandon Duncan at [email protected].

Training Resources

• Missa Cantata Practice for Altar Servers (Video)
• How to Serve a Low Mass with Two Servers (Video)
• How to Serve a Low Mass with One Server (Video)
• Prayers at the Footsteps (PDF)
• Latin Pronunciation for Prayers at the Footsteps (Video)
• Guide to Priest Vestments (Image)
• Parts of the Altar (Image)
• Guide to Liturgical Vessels (Image)
• How to Construct the Chalice (Image)
• How to Light the Altar Candles (Image)