Altar servers play an important role in assisting the priest and other clergy during Mass and other liturgical services at the church. They help ensure that the celebration of the Eucharist and other sacraments runs smoothly. The role of an altar server is a valuable way to serve the Church, participate actively in the liturgy, and grow in faith.

Duties of an Altar Server:

Altar servers perform several tasks during Mass, including:

1. Carrying the processional cross: At the beginning of Mass, the altar server may carry the cross in the entrance procession.

2. Assisting with the offertory: Servers bring the bread, wine, and other offerings to the altar during the preparation of the gifts.

3. Holding the book for the priest: The server may hold the book for the priest during prayers such as the Collect, Eucharistic Prayer, or Gospel reading.

4. Preparing the altar: They assist in preparing the altar before the Mass starts by setting out the chalice, paten, and other items needed for the Eucharist.

5. Lighting the candles: The server may light the candles on the altar before Mass begins.

6. Caring for the incense: If incense is used, the altar server may be asked to assist with the thurible (incense holder) and distribute the incense at appropriate times.

7. Assisting with the communion: During communion, altar servers may assist the priests or deacon by holding the paten or distributing the host to those receiving Communion.

8. Cleaning the vessels: After the Mass, the server may assist in cleaning the sacred vessels used for the Eucharist.

Requirements and Expectations for Altar Servers:

1. Eligibility: Altar servers are typically young people, often starting around the age of 8 or 9, although older children and adults can also serve. Most parishes have a training program for altar servers to teach them the proper procedures.

2. Commitment: Altar servers are expected to be punctual and regularly available for Mass or other liturgical services. Some parishes require servers to commit to a schedule.

3. Respect and Reverence: Altar servers are expected to maintain a sense of reverence during the Mass and treat the sacred vessels and altar with respect.

4. Training: Altar servers usually undergo training to learn their roles and duties. Training typically covers the proper behavior, the movements and actions during Mass, and how to handle liturgical items like the chalice and the thurible.

Spiritual Benefits:

1. Growing in faith: Serving at the altar provides a unique opportunity to experience the Mass from a close perspective and to better understand the significance of the Eucharist and the other sacraments.

2. Service to the Church: Being an altar server is a form of service, where young people (and adults) can give back to their faith community and contribute to the celebration of Mass.

3. Learning discipline and responsibility: Altar servers are often entrusted with important tasks that require discipline, focus, and responsibility, helping them grow in character and leadership.