Altar Servers

Service to your church, parish community and God Himself!

Deacon Paul Evans & Guillaume Thompson

Have you ever thought about becoming an Altar Server at OLSD?

This is a great way for you to begin a life of service to your church, parish community and God Himself!

Serving at the altar is indeed a special and meaningful way to connect with faith and community at OLSD. It offers a unique opportunity for both young and old to deepen their relationship with Jesus and to serve others. Through this ministry, altar servers not only assist in the liturgical celebrations but also grow personally and spiritually, learning valuable lessons in responsibility, dedication, and teamwork.

The role of altar servers is steeped in tradition, and their presence enhances the quality of the Mass. By ensuring that everything needed for the celebration is prepared and available at the right moments, they help create a reverent and smooth flow of the liturgy. It’s a beautiful way to contribute to the worship experience and to be part of a long-standing tradition within the Church.

Altar servers have a variety of important tasks during Mass and other liturgical celebrations. Here are some of the key responsibilities they typically handle:

Assisting the Priest: They help the priest during the Mass by holding the book for prayers, presenting the bread, wine, and water, and assisting with the preparation of the altar.
Carrying the Cross and Candles: During processions, such as the entrance and recessional, altar servers carry the processional cross and candles.
Incense: If incense is used, they assist by carrying the thurible (incense burner) and the boat (container for incense).
Ringing the Bells: They ring the bells at specific points during the Mass, such as during the consecration.
Setting the Altar: They help set up the altar with the necessary items for the Eucharist, including the chalice, paten, and purificator.
Clearing the Altar: After Communion, they assist in clearing the altar and returning items to their proper places.
General Assistance: They provide general assistance to the priest and deacon as needed, ensuring that the liturgy runs smoothly.

These tasks require attention to detail, reverence, and a good understanding of the liturgical practices. It’s a role that fosters a deeper connection to the Mass and the community.

We invite any young person who has received First Holy Communion to become an Altar Server

Parents who would like your child to be part of the Altar servers’ group, please fill out the online form using the link below. All current Altar Servers are also requested to fill in this online form.

Altar Server Application Form 2024-2025