The Catholic Church across Yorkshire's historic West Riding since 1878

The Catholic Church across Yorkshire's historic West Riding since 1878

Altar Servers

Drawing of three altar servers with one carrying a processional cross

Altar servers, by their skills, knowledge and growing experience, serve the smooth-running of the liturgy: they carry, bring and fetch the things needed by the priest or bishop who is presiding; they ring the bells, as appropriate, and they carry the candles in procession. They can also help to prepare the altar, as well as the credence and offertory tables, before Mass begins, as well as helping clear things away afterwards.

For many young people, both girls and boys, this important ministry represents a memorable and formative stage of their early faith years, and they often begin once they’ve receive their first Holy Communion. Many continue on into their teens performing this service, and share their knowledge and experience with their younger brothers and sisters.

 

If you are interested in becoming an altar server in your local parish please contact your parish priest.

The Liturgy Office of England and Wales has produced an introductory guide for Servers.