and perform the duties with diligence. Sloppiness is to be avoided; stiff or artificial movement is to be avoided; careless or unseemly behavior is to be avoided. In all things, the server must be aware that the purpose in assisting at the altar is “that God may be glorified.”
This manual is designed to describe those duties expected of you as a server. Server means one who assists—the terms acolyte, crucifer, and thurifer (as used in this manual) apply to specific responsibilities. No manual can be complete, inasmuch as the custom or use of each parish church varies. However, there are basic directions that apply, governed either by the rubrics of The Book of Common Prayer or by tradition. In all things, the specific manner in which one serves and the ceremonial used is determined by the parish priest or the person appointed for this purpose. Most of what will be expected of you can be found in this manual. Also, there may be ceremonies or duties described here that are not part of your parish liturgical life. These are listed as “optional variants” in the main chapter on serving (Chapter 9), and identified by “in some places …” in other parts of the manual. Again, your priest will instruct you.
There is absolutely no “right” or “wrong” way to serve. The best rule is that all should be done with dignity and care in the simplest way possible so as not to distract the congregation. Consistent action aids this and helps prevent sloppy carelessness on the one hand and fussiness on the other.
The patron of those who serve at the altar is Vincent, Deacon and Martyr. He lived in the late third century, was martyred in the year 304, and is commemorated in our calendar on January 22. Vincent is remembered for his love of God, his faithfulness to his bishop, and his unswerving loyalty to his responsibilities. These traits—love, faithfulness, and loyalty—are virtues that all who are privileged to serve at the altar should cultivate. Remember: our purpose is rooted in our love of God, our faithfulness is seen in our willingness to serve responsibly, and our loyalty is demonstrated in how carefully we carry out our duties. Love, faithfulness, and loyalty are the virtues we seek to perfect. The server’s aim is to be as steadfast as St. Vincent.
This manual may not answer all your questions about serving, but it will assist you in learning the basic principles. Pray, work, and study that you may do all things in love, with faithfulness and loyalty, to the Glory of God.
Dennis G. Michno +
Feast of St. Matthias
February 24, 1981
All Saints Church
New York City
The “MOTTO” used at the title of the preface is from the Rule of St. Benedict: “That in all things God may be glorified.”
Part One
An Introduction to Serving
Chapter 1
How To Use This Manual
Part One describes the general procedures, posture, vestments, the way to light and extinguish candles, and includes a check-list for use before the Eucharist.
Part Two (Chapters 8-9) is the most important in that it deals with the basic duties of the server at the Eucharist. First, there is an outline of the Eucharist. Chapter 9 is then divided into four columns: 1) when the celebrant faces the congregation across the altar; 2) when the celebrant faces the cross (with back to the congregation); 3) helpful illustrations; and 4) optional variants. This part of the manual must obviously be adapted to conform with the practice of your own parish church.
Part Three contains a description of the division of the duties if there is more than one server, and then deals with the specific duties of the acolyte,* crucifer, and thurifer.
Part Four contains variants for the Daily Offices and other special liturgies.
This is followed by Appendix A, which is a Form for the Commissioning of Servers, and Appendix B, which is an outline of the Church Year.
At the end there is a Glossary or list of terms used in this manual. If you don’t know the meaning of a word, look it up!
Page numbers in italics throughout this manual refer to The Book of Common Prayer.
All who serve at the altar should be familiar with The Book of Common Prayer and with the ceremonies and responsibilities described in this manual. Read and study them carefully, and practice so that you are well aware of what is expected of you when you are going to serve.
*Acolyte is commonly used as a synonym for server. In this manual, for the sake of clarity, acolyte is used specifically for one who carries a torch or candle. Server is the general term used for anyone who assists the celebrant or other officiant.
Chapter 2
The Server’s Prayers
“Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Never flag in zeal, be aglow with the Spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. “ (Romans 12:9-12)
Before the Service
Be present, Lord Jesus, be present! Grant that I may faithfully and loyally serve you in love and through my service proclaim, “In all things, God be glorified.’’ Amen.
After the Service
Glory to you, Lord Jesus, Glory to you! Grant that as I have served in your presence, so I may witness faithfully and loyally to your love in the world and forever proclaim, “In all things, God be glorified.” Amen.
Chapter 3
General Instructions
1 One who serves at the altar, whether as acolyte, crucifer, or thurifer, must always keep in mind that the attention of the congregation is not to be on those ministering but on the liturgy. Therefore, always move discreetly and quietly—and above all with reverence.
2 Posture:When standing—stand up straight, and if you are carrying a candle or the processional cross make sure that it is straight.When kneeling—put all of your weight on your knees and kneel upright. Do not squat or slouch. It looks terrible!When bowing—There are two types of bows: the solemn and the simple. The solemn bow is used when reverencing the altar, and at other times as directed. The solemn bow is from the waist, inclining the head and shoulders so that if your hands were out in front of you, they would almost touch your knees.The simple bow,
