MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Pre Module – Basic Catechisms

The Basic Teachings of the Faith:

 4 Pillars of Faith
 Creed
 Commandments
 Sacraments
 Prayer
The Creed
 I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth,
 and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
 who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,
 suffered under Pontius Pilate,
 was crucified, died and was buried;
 he descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the
dead;
 he ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the
Father almighty;
 from there he will come to judge the living and the dead.
 I believe in the Holy Spirit,
 the holy catholic Church,
 the communion of saints,
 the forgiveness of sins,
 the resurrection of the body,
 and life everlasting. Amen

The 10 Commandments
 I am the Lord thy God, thou shall have no other gods besides me;
 Thou shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain;
 Remember to keep holy the Lord’s day
 Honor thy Mother and Father
 Thou shall not kill
 Thou shall not commit adultery;
 Thou shall not steal;
 Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor;
 Thou shall not covet your neighbor’s wife;
 Thou shall not covet your neighbor’s goods.
The 7 Sacraments
 Baptism
 Holy Eucharist
 Confirmation
 Holy Orders
 Matrimony
 Penance
 Anointing of the Sick
The Prayer
 Holy Scriptures
 Salvation History
 Traditional Prayers
 Lord’s Prayer
 Hail Mary
 Glory Be
 Personal Prayers
 Adoration
 Contrition
 Thanksgiving
 Supplication
Holy Scriptures

 Salvation History
 Fall of Man
 Covenant with Noah
 Covenant with Abraham
 Exodus
 Tribal
 Kingdom
 Divided Kingdom
 Exilic
 Post-Exilic
 Birth Of Christ
 Passion And Death Of Christ
 Resurrection Of Christ

Traditional Prayers
 The Lord’s Prayer
 Hail Mary
 Glory Be
Types of Personal Prayers
 Adoration
 Contrition
 Thanksgiving
 Supplication

Duties and Responsibilities:
 To have a knowledge about the basic teachings of the Church;
 To understand the basic teachings of the Church.
 Ministry of Altar Servers
About us
The Ministry of Altar Servers is group of young servers assisting in the Parish
Liturgical and Religious celebrations. Its main goal is to encourage young men
and women to become worthy guards of honor to the Eucharistic King and to
enkindle greater piety and devotion to Christ through the Holy Sacrifice of the
Mass.

MISSION:
To involve young men and women in serving Jesus through the Sacred
Liturgy of the One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic Church and the worship of His words
and works.

OBJECTIVES
* To develop young men in ministry to Jesus and His Church;
* To strengthen their relationship with Jesus;
* To create a strong brotherhood using service as foundation;
* To engage in social, cultural, sports, and religious activities; and
* To help in the evangelization efforts initiated by the parish.

ACTIVITIES
* Sunday Services
* Liturgical Activities
* Friday ACTS (Adoration, Contrition, Thanksgiving, and Supplication)
* Weekly Meetings/Bible Reflections/Sharings
* Formation Seminars/Workshops
* Processions
* Annual Retreat/Tours
* Quarterly Unit/Parent Recollection
* Summer Camp/Outings

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

* 9 years and above;
* Has received the First Holy Communion;
* Photocopy of Birth and Baptismal Certificates;
* 2×2 photo
Please see your respective Parish Priest(s)/ MAS Coordinator(s)/ Animator(s) in
your respective parishes for more information.

– IN MINISTERIO CHRISTI!
 Model Constitution

The Constitution and By-Laws of the Ministry of Altar Servers

GENERAL DESCRIPTION
1. The official name of the group is MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS[1]
(M.A.S), a ministry of young men dedicated to serve at liturgical
services in the parish and to promote Christian brotherhood
through spiritual formation.
2. The Ministry of Altar Servers is a subordinate of the Worship
Ministry and is directly under the Parish Priest.
3. The Ministry of Altar Servers is compliant to the norms and
guidelines set by Universal Law (Canonical and Liturgical) and
of the Diocesan Ministry for Liturgical Affairs of the Roman
Catholic (Arch)Diocese of ______.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES
1. The Ministry of Altar Servers aims to:
2. Form young men as responsible stewards of liturgy and of the
parish.
3. Prepare them as future servant-leaders of the Church.
4. Instill in them love for God and for the Church through formation
series.
5. Foster brotherhood and unity with fellow servers.
6. Imbue vocation promotion and awareness as priests, religious,
and consecrated lay.
QUALIFICATIONS
1. A bonafide altar server must be:
2. A good Catholic in faith and deed.
3. Willing to commit himself to perform his duties and responsibilities as
Altar Server.
4. Willing to grow spiritually through this ministry by his participation in
diocesan and parish formation programs.
5. Physically and mentally fit.
6. A recipient of the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Eucharist.
7. Recommended and approved by the Coordinator and/or by the
Officers after having passed evaluation or observation.
8. The aspirant must first fill up an application form, and afterwards will be
interviewed by the Coordinator.
9. The aspirant must undergo fifteen (15) days of observation during
weekday Masses.
10. The aspirant will be evaluated and screened by the Officers.
11. A bonafide resident parishioner.
12. If he has been previously inactive, but wishes to join formally the
ministry, he has to undergo evaluation as prescribed by the
 Coordinator. He will be approved only after passing the evaluation
and interview.
13. If he lives outside the parish but wishes to apply as altar server, he
needs to secure first Permission Letter from his domicile parish priest.
Upon approval and referral by his parish priest through explicit writing,
he will be then allowed to apply. Failure to present recommendation
letter from the parish priest will forfeit his application.
14. If he transfers residence outside the parish, he will be allowed to remain
as altar server for a maximum of three (3) months of transitory period
starting from the date of his transfer. After his transitory period, he has
to secure Permission Letter from his domicile parish priest before being
allowed to serve.
15. An applicant lacking in any of the given qualifications, as the
Coordinator may deem necessary, may be denied admission to the
ministry.
16. The aspirant’s parents must sign the application or membership form of
their child as a sign of their consent in permitting him to join the ministry.
TERM OF SERVICE
1. The term of an altar server is one year in consonance with the
Ministry Year.
2. A server may renew his membership for the next Ministry Year, as
determined by the Officers, and if he attended the formation
program given by the Diocesan Ministry for Liturgical Affairs.
3. The term of Officers, including the Coordinator, is one year
following the duration of the Ministry Year. Their term of office
may be extended depending on the discretion of the majority
of all the members or of the Parish Priest.
LEADERSHIP
1. The Parish Priest is the head and final authority in the ministry, in
its activities and guidelines. As spiritual father and chief adviser,
he is entailed to cater the spiritual and holistic growth of his
servers through regular monitoring and formation series as
provided by the parish. Moreover, the Parish Priest has the
foremost right to be informed of and to grant permission to any
activities or guidelines being observed or proposed in the
group.
2. Assisting the Parish Priest in providing formation series and
assistance to the ministry is the formator, a competent individual
who undergo liturgical formation from recognize institute of
liturgy.[2] They can either be a parochial vicar, guest priest,
deacon, assigned or visiting nun, religious brother, seminarian,
or any lay person as requested or instructed by the Parish Priest.
There can be more than one formation in the group,
depending on the need or function to assist in.
 Another role of the formator, or one of them in the group, is to serve as
Spiritual Director to guide the spiritual life of the members, helping them to be
more close to Jesus and to instill love for the Church, Family, Studies, and
Charity. He will also help lead the members in celebrating more sincerely the
Eucharist, go to confession, and attend to spiritual direction. He must possess
good and orthodox Catholic foundation-formation.
Former seminarians are, in whatever case, are not permitted to become
formators or advisers for spiritual, emotional, moral and security reasons.
1. The Ministry of Altar Servers will have a set of Officers who will
supervise the activities and discipline of all the members.
2. The Coordinator is the official head of the ministry.
3. He directs and oversees the activities and guidelines for all the
members.
4. He serves for a term of one year unless he resigns or is removed
from position by the Parish Priest.
5. He has a full mandate from the Parish Priest and the Parish
Pastoral Council.
6. He attends the meetings of the Parish Pastoral Council and of
the Worship Ministry. He may invite two (2) officers at most to
join him in attending such.
7. He presides over General Assemblies and other important
meetings for the group.
8. He may sanction, suspend, or expel any member pending the
decision of the Officers.
9. He attends meetings with other altar servers’ coordinators in the
diocesan and vicariate level. He attends meetings of the
Liturgical or Vocation Ministry (diocesan/vicariate/parish level).
10. He approves the membership of any aspiring candidate as altar
server.
11. He supervises the tasks and responsibilities of the Officers and of
the other servers. Himself as Officer, he also fulfills the same
duties as with other Officers.
12. He is chosen or elected from among the Officers of the ministry,
pending the approval of the Adviser.
13. The Officers assist in the supervision of the ministry. With the
Coordinator, the Officers implement policies directed to the
entire ministry. They assist in the function of the Coordinator.
14. The Officers may be elected or nominated by a majority of all
the servers.
15. The Officers function as consultative group of the entire ministry
regarding norms, activities, and schedules.
16. The number of Officers is determined by the Coordinator.
17. The Coordinator can be selected only from among the Officers.
 18. The Officers safeguard the discipline and order of the ministry
especially during meetings and liturgical services. They may
reprimand or call the attention of erring servers.
19. The Officers assess the conduct and deficiencies of the servers.
They may consult or report to the Formators and the servers’
parents/guardians about the conduct of their children.
20. The Officers has the duty to teach or review basic liturgical
training to all servers and aspirants.
21. The Officers have authority over the evaluation and approval of
aspirants (including formerly inactive members) with the final
approval of the Coordinator.
22. The Officers oversee the maintenance of the sacred vessels and
liturgical vestments of the servers.
23. The Officers attend monthly parish formation series, and, a must
with the Coordinator, attend doctrinal, moral, liturgical and
spiritual formations in different institutes of formation or in the
diocese or parish level.

FORMATION AND ACTIVITIES

Mandated Schedule
1. All servers who are approved for membership for the new
ministry year must attend Commissioning or Renewal Mass after
having attended the basic and renewal formation program
conducted by the Diocesan Ministry for Liturgical Affairs.
2. In the Commissioning Mass, aspirants receive and wear for the
first time their official liturgical attire from the start of the
celebration.
3. The new Coordinator and the new set of Officers have their
Oathtaking.
4. Servers must attend all prescribed (Arch)diocesan renewal
seminars and meetings as scheduled from the diocese. Failure
to attend is a grave matter. Hence, the Adviser or the
Coordinator has the right to cancel membership of those who
fail to attend the seminar.
5. All liturgical services are considered mandated schedule.
Frequent unexcused absences are considered grave matter
and subject to proper sanction or disciplinary action by the
Coordinator.
6. Should there be an absence in a schedule, the individual server
should make up for his absences through volunteer service
and/or present an excuse letter from parents/guardians.
7. There will be a General Assembly (G.A.) for the entire ministry.
 8. The General Assembly is held every 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the
month. All members are obliged to attend.
9. The Coordinator, assisted by the Officers, presides over the
session. He must invite the Parish Priest and the formators to
attend.
10. The General Assembly takes place within the parish vicinity.
11. The General Assembly follows a prescribed format
12. Opening Prayer – to be led by a scheduled member
13. Sunday Gospel Reading – to be read by the Coordinator
14. Sharing of Any Member and Any Officer – brief sharing on the
Gospel
15. Summary of Past Meeting – the agenda discussed in the
previous G.A. are read by any Officer
16. Attendance – the Secretary, chosen among the officers, checks
the members who are present and absent. He distinguishes
those absent servers with (a) valid reason or excuse and those
(b) who are unexcused.
17. Agenda – Concerns for the session and for any upcoming
activities are discussed by the Coordinator
18. Open Forum – Servers are free to raise questions or suggestions
at the Officers
19. The Parish Priest or Formators gives short lecture on a certain
topic.
20. Closing Prayer – to be led by a scheduled server. If a priest is
present, he gives his Final Blessing to the servers.
21. The Officers, especially the Secretary, record the minutes of
meetings for every General Assembly.
Core Group Meeting
1. The Officers, who comprise the Core Group of the ministry,
conduct for themselves a meeting to plan and deliberate
upcoming activities, especially evaluation on present members
and on attendance in liturgical services.
2. Either the Coordinator or Parish Priest summons the meeting for
Officers either once every two weeks or as needed.
3. The Core Group Meeting may adapt the same format of the
General Assembly, with the discretion of the Coordinator.
4. The Core Group Meeting may be held either within the parish
vicinity or in another suitable venue (e.g. house of an Officer)
Formation Series
1. Spiritual formation is at the core of the ministry. Spiritual talks,
inputs, seminars, or prayer workshops may be provided for the
group at least once every two months, or as prescribed by the
Parish Priest or the Formators.
 2. The Officers with the Formators may program basic and
ongoing liturgical and catechetical seminars for the servers, as
prescribed by the Parish Priest or the (Arch)diocese.
3. Servers must participate in seminars or workshops held in the
parish, vicariate or in the diocese.
4. Frequent absence in formation programs is considered a grave
matter and is subject to disciplinary action by the Coordinator.
Role of Parents and Guardians
1. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in the spiritual and
holistic formation of their children-servers. Hence, they must
remind and encourage their children to attend to their
respective liturgical services and other schedules in the ministry.
2. Parents and guardians are encouraged to provide
opportunities for their children to deepen their spiritual growth
and participation in parish life, such as personal prayer time in
the family, attendance in parish formation series, or even in
instilling vocation awareness to their children.
3. Parents are obliged to attend Parents’ Meetings when
scheduled by the Coordinator.
4. Parents are encouraged to help in financial needs of the
ministry when needed.

TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. The primary purpose of being an altar server is to serve God and
the Church through the liturgical celebrations (see GIRM 100;
187-193, except distributing or assisting in Holy Communion),
and to become a better Christian and person. Hence, his
purpose for serving is not out of mere desire to earn recognition
at school or work, or of peer pressure or any selfish motives.
2. A server undertakes both liturgical service and spiritual growth. If
he serves at Mass but doesn’t or seldom attends formation
series, he is driven of impure motive for serving and, hence, his
attitude is subject to poor evaluation.
3. A server is a man of God. He is expected to live a morally-
decent life. Hence, he exemplifies good Christian character
whether inside or outside the parish. He is committed to spiritual
formation and personal spiritual growth in love for God and for
Mary.
4. A server is a man for the Church. He serves out of love and
dedication for the Church. He respects and lives out the
teachings of the Church. He respects, observes, and submits
himself to the direction and guidelines of the diocese and of the
parish. He gives his total self and commitment in service. Hence,
he also prioritizes service above any of his busy schedule. He
 continues to serve regardless of his other personal commitments
outside the church.
5. A server is a man for others. He initiates and fosters good
fraternal relationship with his fellow servers. He shows humility
and respect to his fellow servers, his Officers, and to other parish
workers, even ordinary parishioners or churchgoers. Above all,
he is a good model of service and modesty to others, especially
in his community.
6. A server fulfills his liturgical service in accordance to the
following:
7. A server attends the following mandatory schedule:
8. Scheduled liturgical service
 Sunday Masses
 Weekday Masses
 Funeral Masses (as requested)
 School Masses
 Street, Area and barangay Masses
 Formation series
 Regular spiritual formation series in the parish
 Annual summer diocesan basic and renewal seminar
 General assemblies
 All Stations of the Cross (a number of servers hold the vessels,
the rest joins in the procession)
 All Holy Week Activities (a number of servers attend to their
designated schedule while the rest simply attend the rites)
 Processions of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi and Christ the King
 Simbang Gabi/Misa de Gallo
 All Fiesta activities
1. A server should be decent in outlook during liturgical services.
Hence he must avoid from wearing:
2. Earrings and bracelets
3. Long or customized hair or fingernails
4. Slippers or rubber shoes
5. Denim/Maong, jeans, any colored pants other than black slacks
6. Wristbands or other distractive ornaments
7. Former (including “inactive”), or expelled servers, unless fully
admitted, are not allowed to serve nor wear the liturgical attire
for present members.
8. Suspended members are not allowed to serve until they are fully
allowed by the Coordinator to serve again
9. Servers who have been removed from the ministry are not
allowed to serve during the Ministry Year for which they are
removed unless they are readmitted for the next Ministry Year
which they apply for.
10. No server can function as Master of Ceremonies without explicit
permission from the parish priest, priest-presider, and he must
undergo liturgical formation from a institute recognize by the
diocese or formation under the diocese.
11. Aside from the head sacristans, servers must ensure that all
preparations for Mass are set (e.g. number of hosts, bell and
other vessels). After the Mass, they must help clean and return
the vessels to their respective place of storage.
12. A server handles all vestments, vessels, and parish properties
with care.
13. A server is time-bound and sensitive in every schedule he is
obliged at. He must attend all the required schedule in the
ministry, whether in the parish or in the diocese for his formation
series or liturgicaI services. If he has valid reason for not
attending a meeting or service, he or his parents must inform his
Coordinator and Adviser at least 6 hours ahead of his supposed
schedule. If he cannot serve, he must make up for the number
of services he missed. He must find a substitute server in his
absence. Failure to comply with this procedure frequently or
having frequent unexcused absences is subject to serious
disciplinary action, as decided by the Coordinator.
14. A server must have received the Sacrament of Confirmation by
the end of his third year high school.
15. In case he will not be able to fulfill his duties ahead of time
because of certain reasons such as vacation leave, special
classes, or family schedule, a server may take a proper leave of
absence.
16. The server and his parent must sign a leave of absence
addressed to the Coordinator, and must indicate specific
length of time (i.e. date of leave and return) for his absence.
17. The parent must inform the Coordinator through call or
appointment concerning the request for leave, and must
provide a valid reason.
18. A server who takes a leave but fails to present a letter or have
his parent talk to the concerned persons will be subject to
serious disciplinary action as decided by the Coordinator.
19. A server who refuses to obey and respect the Parish Priest,
Adviser, Coordinator, or any Officer is subject to severe
disciplinary action and, if repeated through explicit aggression,
may face sanction of cancellation of membership or expulsion.
20. A server must not have a grade lower than 80 (or equivalent of
this) in his report card. Failure of this rule will lead him to
suspension in service until he improves his grade in a particular
subje
LITURGICAL ATTIRE
1. The ministry complies with the prescribed liturgical attire for altar
servers as prescribed by the Institutio Generalis Missalis Romani
Nos. 336 & 339[3].
2. For his basic attire, he wears
 Black leather shoes
 Black socks
 Black slacks or pants
 White undershirt
1. Only present members wear the official liturgical attire.
2. Former or inactive members, unless fully admitted, are
prohibited from wearing the official liturgical attire for present
members.
3. Servers’ vestment must be distinguished from the vestment of a
seminarian or habit of a religious brother.
4. Aspirants undergoing evaluation period must wear at least
white polo.
SANCTIONS
1. A server who violates any of the guidelines as written herein or
instructed shall be given a corresponding sanction or
disciplinary action depending on the gravity of the offense, as
follows:
2. Oral reprimand and/or report to parents, if offense is committed
once, twice, or thrice or if a server commits up to three
violations.
3. Suspension from service, if offense is committed more than three
times or if a server commits more than three violations.
4. Either cancellation of membership or expulsion, if the server
continuously violates the by-laws and guidelines even after his
suspension period, if there has been no improvement in his
character, or if he openly disobeys or blatantly shows
disrespect, rebellious attitude, malicious and scandalous acts
such as public or sexual immodesty, blasphemy, or repudiation
of authority or of the Church teachings, or other grave offenses
as decided by the Officers.
5. The following are the policies concerning Suspension Policy:
6. A server who is suspended is not allowed to serve during the
given Suspension Period as prescribed to him by the Officers.
7. Suspension Period may range from at least three weeks to three
months.
8. A server who is suspended from liturgical duty is expected to
fulfill his obligations such as going to Sunday masses or helping
in his family chores.
 9. A server who is suspended is not exempted from attending
general assemblies, formation series, or other important
meetings.
10. The Parish Priest, Formators, Coordinator, or a majority of the
Officers may impose suspension on an erring server.
11. After the end of his Suspension Period, the server is subject to
approval by the Officers whether he can serve again or be
given extension of his sanction.
12. If there has been no improvement in the character of a server,
after having been given parental or fraternal correction and
even suspension, or when he commits repeatedly grave
offenses or scandalous acts as discerned by the Officers, he is
entailed to either of the following
13. Cancellation of membership – he is removed from the ministry
but he may apply either for the next Ministry Year or after one
(1) full year, depending on the discretion of the Coordinator. A
server who is removed from the ministry is subject to evaluation
by the Officers before he can be allowed to apply for the next
term of service.
14. Expulsion – A server is banned for an indefinite length of time
from the ministry. Only the Parish Priest can lift the expulsion.
15. Frequent unexcused absences during services or meetings may
be counted as grave offenses and are subject either to
suspension or cancellation of membership.
AMENDMENTS
1. These by-laws shall take effect immediately upon their adoption
and approval of the Parish Priest, all the Officers and Members
of the Ministry of Altar Servers.
2. When effective, these shall supercede all guidelines which may
have heretofore have been addressed to the ministry.
3. Any proposed amendment to any of these by-laws may be
initiated by a majority of Officers and shall be subject for
approval from the Parish Priest. The Parish Priest may overrule
any proposed amendment to these by-laws.
[1] Cf. GIRM 100.
[2] Cf. SC 15.
[3] 336: The sacred garment common to all ordained and instituted ministers of
any rank is the alb, to be tied at the waist with a cincture unless it is made so as
to fit even without such. Before the alb is put on, should this not completely
cover the ordinary clothing at the neck, an amice should be used. The alb may
not be exchanged for a surplice, not even over a cassock, on occasions when
a chasuble or dalmatic is to be worn or when, according to the norms, only a
stole is worn without a chasuble or dalmatic.
339: Acolytes, readers, and other lay ministers may wear the alb or other suitable
attire that has been legitimately approved by the Conference of Bishops (cf. no.
390).
 Module 1
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 1 – Introduction to the Ministry of Altar Servers

Being an Altar Server you are called a minister, a person who serves the
parish community. As a minister, you should assist the community to celebrate
the sacred liturgy, which is to serve God. You are mainly serving the priest to
lead the community to God in prayer which is the work of the priests. You
appear in public, but you are never a performer. By your faithful duty, you
remain always a servant of God in your Parish. Blessed John Paul II said “you are
far more than ‘helpers of the priest’. Above all, you are servants of Jesus the
Eternal high Priest.”

Basic Prayers

 Lord’s Prayer
Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be
done, on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us
our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into
temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
 Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women,
and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for
us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
 Glory Be
Glory be to the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. As it was in the
beginning is now and ever shall be. Amen.
 Apostles’ Creed
I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of heaven and earth, and in Jesus
Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the
Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried;
he descended into hell; on the third day he rose again from the dead; he
ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God the Father
almighty; from there he will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in
the Holy Spirit, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the
forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen
What is an Altar Server? Identity:
 In the same manner as the Ministries of Lectors & Holy Communion, the
Ministry of Altar Servers are appointed on a temporary basis, thus they are
commissioned, rather than instituted.
  Altar Servers are not to be confused with the instituted acolytes. In the
Dioceses of the Philippines, these ministers are to be referred as Altar
Servers. (i.e., not sacristans, acolytes, or knights of the altar)
 The primary role of the Altar Servers is to assist the priest in the celebration
of the liturgy, especially during Mass. This is done through specific actions
and by setting an example to the congregation by active participation.
 There is nothing that prevents girls from becoming Altar Servers however,
for practical reasons, and as a venue to attract vocations to the
priesthood; it is highly recommended that boys are appointed for this
ministry.

Ideals of an Altar Server:

1. Reverence – Reverence for God and for sacred objects is most important
when they serve. Reverent actions, peaceful and dignified behavior and
gestures should be seen by the people when you stand at the sanctuary,
for this adds solemnity to the celebration of the liturgy and contribute to
the active participation of all.

2. Discipline – With good training and proper discipline, the rituals and
ceremonies of the liturgy can be carried out in an orderly and solemn
manner. But, as always, training involves discipline. Discipline among Altar
Servers is expected in the following:
 During the celebration of the liturgy, especially the mass
 As they actively participate in the celebration;
 As they avoid unnecessary movements that may cause
distraction to others;
 As they pay attention to every part of the Mass, at the same
time being aware of the responsibilities and tasks;
 As they avoid loitering and congregating in the sacristy or other
places around the church;
 As they work diligently with other lay liturgical ministers and even
with priests
 Outside of the celebration
 In their relationship with others, especially with their family,
friends, classmates and other persons whom they encounter;
 In their care and concern, respect and reverence for the
materials they use for the celebration of the liturgy, as well as
the church and its other areas (e.g. sacristy);
 In their respect for their elders;
 In their willingness to undergo on-going formation and training.

3. Decorum – decorum means “what is proper.” Decorum requires a sense

of dignity. Servers should not only do their work well, they should not just
train well, they should, likewise, have a neat and tidy appearance since
 this adds to the dignity and beauty of the liturgical celebrations. This is
shown in the following ways:
a. By keeping their uniforms neat and clean at all times, especially as
they wear it during liturgical celebrations;
b. By being groomed;
c. By moving in dignified manner, with confidence and reverence for
the liturgical celebration.

4. Piety – Piety does not mean they look holy whenever they serve at the
altar. It means that they carry within themselves a great love for God and
his people, even if they are not serving in the Church. Piety involves:
 A good prayer life;
 A special love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament;
 A devotion to the Blessed Mother;
 A deep love for the Eucharist and other Sacraments;
 Reading the Bible and learning from it

5. Brotherhood – An Altar Server has an attitude of team-work, in serving you

should understand that you are a part of a larger group. Always
remember that in serving you should be united in the service of God.
Brotherhood involves:

 Witnessing – a life of witnessing that involves

 Doing good to others at all times;
 Being faithful to their responsibilities, not only in the church, but in
their families, in School, in other places;
 By avoiding bad habits and vices;
 By being good example to others.
 Teamwork – Serving at the altar is never a solo task. It is always done
as a team of brothers. This is shown in the following ways.
 By being aware of their own responsibility and the responsibility of
other ministers as well;
 By helping each other, being friendly and kind, not proud, boastful
or competitive.
 By welcoming newcomers and teaching them patiently;
 By praying together with other ministers before and after liturgical
celebrations;
 By being a brother to their fellow servers.

Roles and functions of an Altar Servers

 To assist ministers of higher rank during the liturgical
celebrations, especially the Mass, namely:
 Instituted Acolytes;
 Deacons;
  Priests;
 The Bishop.
 To work together with other lay liturgical ministers in the
preparation and celebration of the liturgy, especially the Mass,
namely:
 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion;
 Lectors and Commentators;
 Ushers, Greeters, and Collectors;
 Music Ministry
 Sacristans

Altar Server Facts:

 Altar Server’s Motto: SERVE THE LORD WITH GLADNESS
 Altar Server’s Patron Saints: Tarcisius – August 15
St. Pedro Calungsod – April 2

Altar Servers’ Pledge:

LORD, Here I am, all yours, ready to serve you, I shall strive hard to be
faithful to my duty of serving at the Mass and of helping the Church. I shall strive
to be a good example to all and to help my fellow Christians respect your
home. May I be your loyal Servant as an Altar Server with the Help of Mary, Our
Lady of Beautiful Love, my mother and my model. AMEN.

Duties and Responsibilities:

 To be faithful in attending meetings and formation programs of
the parish, vicariate or diocese.
 Module 2
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 2 – The Liturgy

The word “LITURGY” came from a Greek word which means “public duty”,
a service, and a public organization. Its original meaning was some public
action. When the word was adopted by the Church to describe her public
“services” of worship its meaning changed. In Christian liturgy we are not talking
about what we do but what God does. The Vatican council points out so
clearly, the liturgy is the action of Jesus Christ, an action of eternal worship in
which he involves us, the members of his mystical body, the church.

Kinds of liturgical observance:

 Solemnity – the days of great importance to the Church,
including all Sundays, this begin in the evening of the preceding
day, which has a special vigil Mass for some solemnities.
 Feast – celebrated within the limits of a calendar day.
 Memorial – a feast within the limits of the day which are either
obligatory (M), or optional (m)
 Ferial – a day where there is an optional memorial and the
priest may select a mass of his choice, unless otherwise directed
by the calendar.
The Liturgical Seasons:
 Advent – The beginning of the church’s calendar. This
celebrates the two-fold coming of Christ (Incarnation and Final
Judgment). With Christian joy we celebrate his first coming. In
Christian hope we await his second coming. This season lasts for
four weeks, including the 9 days of Simbang Gabi. The season
starts from the Sunday after Christ the King and ends the eve of
Christ’s birth.
 Christmas – the season which celebrates the birth of Christ, The
Incarnation, and God became man. This season has 2 focal
points: 1) The Christmas Day until the solemnity of Mary, Mother
of God. 2) The Solemnity of the epiphany until the feast of the
Baptism of the lord.
 Lent – A 40 days giving of ourselves to prayer and penance, to
hearing the word of God and to acts of charity. In this season
we prepare for the Easter and recall the grace of our Baptism. It
runs from Ash Wednesday until the Mass of the Lord’s Supper.
 Easter Triduum – the three days of the Passion, Death, and
Resurrection of Christ. This is the highest point of the year. This
begins on the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and reaches until the
Easter vigil.
  Easter – This season has 50 days celebration of the rising of Christ
from the dead. Starting from the Easter vigil until Pentecost.
These days are called as feast days but Easter Octave for the 8
days after Easter Sunday.
 Ordinary Time – A season of growth in our faith. This season has
2 parts: 1) the Sunday of the baptism of the Lord until Ash
Wednesday. 2) and the Pentecost Sunday until the Feast of
Christ the King.
The Liturgical Colors:
 White – The color of Joy, and Glory of God. Used during the
seasons of Christmas and Easter and the feasts of the Lord,
Blessed Virgin Mary, Saints who are not Martyrs, and the angels.
 Violet – The sign penance and for mourning. Used during the
seasons of Advent and Lent, and for the Masses for the Dead.
 Red – The sign of the blood of Christ or the fire of the Holy Spirit.
Used for the Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Pentecost, and the
Martyred saints.
 Green – The symbol of Good Harvest and Growth in our Faith.
Used for the Ordinary Time
 Rose – The symbol of rejoicing for a great feast coming. Used
during the 3rdSunday of Advent and 4th Sunday of Lent.
 Gold – The Symbol of Kingship of Christ to the World. Used during
the feast of Christ the King and other Special Feast.
 Blue – The Symbol of the humbleness of Mary. Used for the
significant Feast of Mary
Duties and Responsibilities
 To be faithful in attending to their duties in serving at all
liturgical celebrations;
 To arrive at least 30 minutes before their appointed duty. This
is meant for the following purposes:
 Preparation of all liturgical materials they use for celebration;
 Review final instructions especially for more complicated rites
or ceremonies included in special liturgical celebrations
 Personal and group prayers
 To be present during practice and training sessions for special
celebrations with more complicated styles for serving. In this
case, the rule, No Practice-No service, must be applied.
 To assist in other liturgical celebrations, such as baptisms,
weddings, funeral masses or blessings, etc.;
 To notify the Ministry coordinator if they will not be able to
attend to their schedules. They are also expected to look for
their replacement during the said schedule.
 Module 3
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 3 – The Mass

As an Altar Server, it is important for each server to know the structure of

the Mass. It is not merely a matter of knowing “what comes next” but of
understanding the meaning of each part of the Holy Mass. The Mass itself is an
action moving steadily forward to its supreme moments, when Heaven and
Earth meet in the great mystery of the Altar.

Parts of the Mass:

1. INTRODUCTORY RITES:
 Entrance Hymn – a hymn which opens the celebration and
accompanies the procession of the priest and the ministers to
the Altar. It is sung, to deepen our unity together and to
introduce us to the mystery of the season or feast.
 Veneration of the Altar – It is done by the clergy after the
Entrance Hymn. As the sign of Christ, center of the Church and
of the Eucharistic body the altar is shown reverence by the 3
traditional gestures: the bow or the customary reverence , the
kiss, and the incensation(when incense is used)
 Greeting – The presider greets the assembly which is a reminder
of the unity of the Church in God’s grace.
 Penitential Rite – It invites us to be sorry for all our sins, and takes
away all our venial sins which do not need absolution in private
confession. We come to God in a spirit of contrition, so that we
may be worthy in celebrating the Eucharist.
 Gloria – An ancient hymn of praise sung or recited in solemnities
(except Advent and Lent) and appropriate feasts.
 Opening Prayer – An invitation to prayer and a time of silent
prayer. On behalf of the people the priest offers the prayer to
God and thus the people respond “AMEN”
2. LITURGY OF THE WORD:
 First Reading – A reading coming from either the Old or New
Testament which expresses the mood of the celebration
 Responsorial Psalm – A responsory that continues the mood of
the 1st The Responsory is made by the people as their prayer
and the Cantor makes the psalm the main prayer.
 Second Reading – A Reading taken from the New Testament
which is not the Gospel and said only during Solemnities.
  Alleluia/Gospel Proclamation – A joyous welcome to the Holy
Gospel
 Homily – An explanation, Proclamation of the readings of the
Liturgy
 Creed – The profession of Faith as a follower to the teachings of
Christ in the Church
 Prayers of the Faithful – The offertory of the petitions of the
community before God.
3. LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST:
 Offertory – The people offers the works of their hands to God.
 Prayer over the Gifts – The priest raises up the offerings to God.
 Sanctus – The people praises the Holy Trinity, “Holy, holy”
 Acclamation and Anamnesis – The faithful proclaims the mystery of
faith and remember the death and resurrection of Christ made present
through the Eucharist.
 Lord’s Prayer – The people recites the prayer Jesus taught the Church.
 Rite of Peace – The people beg for the peace and unity of the Church
 Agnus Dei – The people asks God to take away the sins of the world.
 Communion – The priest and other Ministers distributes the Eucharist to
the people.
 Prayer after Communion – On behalf of the people the priest offers a
Thanksgiving prayer to God and thus the people respond “AMEN”

4. CONCLUDING RITE:
 Final Blessing – A blessing that the presider gives to the people, which
concludes the Mass in the power of the Holy Trinity, by making the Sign
of the Cross which is the sign of Faith.
 Dismissal – The presider or the Deacon sends the people to serve love
to others.

Duties and Responsibilities

 To be faithful in attending to their duties in serving at the Mass.
 To arrive at least 30 minutes before their appointed duty.
 To notify their coordinator if they will not be able to attend to
their schedules. They are also expected to look for their
replacement during the said schedule.
 To have a knowledge of the parts of the Mass and the
importance of each, as well as an understanding of their
particular roles and responsibilities
 Module 4
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 4 – The Church

An Altar Server must know and understand every part of the church he is
moving in and treat it with utmost respect, this also extends until the home. A
church is a building that was constructed to allow people to meet to worship
together.

The Narthex:
 Baptismal Font – a fixture used for the baptism of children and
adults.
The Nave:
 Pew – a long bench seat or enclosed box, used for seating
members of the congregation of the Church.
The Sanctuary:
 Altar – The large, high table located at the center of the sanctuary
where most of the actions of the Liturgy of the Eucharist take place.
 Lectern – The small, high table located at either side of the
sanctuary, where the readings from the Liturgy of the Word is read.
 Tabernacle – A small box, in which the Body or the Blood of Christ
may be kept when the Mass is not said.
 Tabernacle Lamp – The lamp that lights the tabernacle, this signifies
that there is a Eucharist inside the Tabernacle.
 Presider’s chair – The chair in which only the Priest or the bishop may
sit whether during the Mass or outside the Mass.
 Credence Table – A small table on which is placed the vessels for
the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
 Altar Candles – Two candles lit during the mass, it signifies that Christ
is the light of the world
 Paschal Candle – A very large candle placed beside the Lectern
during the Easter Season and below the Sanctuary during Baptisms
and Funerals.
 Holy Icons – The Pictures or statues of Jesus Christ, the Blessed Virgin
Mary or other Saints.
 Sanctuary Bell – The bell located near the altar, it may be in the
Sanctuary or inside the Sacristy.

Duties and Responsibilities:

 To have a knowledge of the parts of the church and know its
functions for the spirituality of the Church.
 To ensure the care and maintenance of the church.
 Module 5
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 5 – The Holy Vessels and Vestments

An Altar Server must know all the vessels he holds and hold it with care. He
should also know all the vestments he and the clergy is wearing every Mass.

The Vessels:
 Ciborium – The cup-like vessel with a lid, this contains the hosts
that will be used for the Holy Communion. It can also be used
for the reserved hosts to be put in the Tabernacle.
 Chalice – The cup used to hold the wine which will become the
blood of Christ during the Mass
 Patten – The saucer-like dish which usually matches the Chalice.
It holds the bread which will become the body of Christ
 Pall – The stiff, square, white cover that is placed over the
Patten when it is on the Chalice and over the Chalice during
the Mass.
 Corporal – A white, linen napkin on which the Eucharistic Vessels
is placed during the Mass. It is folded into small squares about
the size of the Pall.
 Purificator – A triple-folded rectangular, white cloth used to
cleanse the chalice after the Communion.
 Finger Towel – A small cloth used by the Priests and the
Eucharistic Ministers in distributing the Communion and by the
Bishops in administering the Sacraments of Confirmation and
Holy Orders.
 Cruets – The two small pitchers which contains the water and
wine offered during the Mass
 Communion Plate – A plate with a handle used by an Altar
Server in catching a Eucharistic Crumbs.
 Sanctus Bell – A hand bell which is rung during the Mass.
 Sacramentary – A book on which the volume of Presidential
prayers and the order of the rites connected with the mass are
located.
 Lectionary – A Liturgical book that holds the readings used
during the liturgy of the Word in the Mass.
 Gospel Book – A book that holds the Sunday and Solemnity
Gospels
 Pitcher and Basin – Used to hold and catch the water for the
washing of the hands of the presider.
  Pyx – A pocket watch-shaped case in which it holds the Holy
Communion to be given to the sick in the Community outside
the celebration of the Mass.
 Processional Cross – The crucifix mounted on a tall pole which is
carried during processions
 Processional Candles – The two candles mounted on a tall pole
which is carried during processions
 Monstrance – A large ornate vessel used to hold the Blessed
Sacrament during Its Public Exposition.
 Lunette – A thin, circular receptacle which holds the Blessed
Sacrament when exposed in the Monstrance.
 Oil Stocks – A metal cylinder, with compartments for
sacramental oils.
 Aspergillum – The bush form or hollow bulb sprinkler which
contains a sponge, and has an openings to sprinkle drops of
Holy Water to the people.
 Thurible – A metal container with a lid which is extended from
chains, in which charcoal and incense is burned. It is also called
censer.
 Incense Boat – A small metal container which holds the incense
to be put into the Thurible.
The Vestments:
 Cassock – A long outer garment worn by the Clergy and by
Altar Servers.
 Alb – A long, white, dress-like vestment which is used by the
Clergy and the Seminarians.
 Cincture – A long cord used to fasten the Alb at the waist to
hold it in place and adjust it to proper length
 Stole – A long colored cloth ornately decorated worn by the
priest around his neck, letting it hang down in front, and worn
by the deacon over his right shoulder and fastened on his left
side like a sash. Its Color varies according to the season or feast.
 Chasuble – The outer vestment worn over the stole and alb. Its
Color varies according to the season or feast.
 Dalmatic – A loose fitting robe with open sides and wide sleeves
worn by deacons.
 Cope – A large semi-circular cloak, held at the front by a clasp
or band of fabric. It is used during benediction of the Blessed
Sacrament.
 Humeral Vail – A large shawl, worn around the shoulders while
carrying the Blessed Sacrament during the benediction and
Eucharistic Procession.
  Surplice – A wide- sleeved garment, slipped over the head,
covering the shoulders, and coming down below the Knees. It is
worn over the Cassock.
 Mitre – A double-pointed head-dress, with two lappets hanging
at the back. It is used by the Bishops.
 Crozier – A staff with a shepherd’s crook at the top, this is a sign
of his pastoral office.
 Pectoral Cross – The Bishop’s cross necklace. It is worn under his
chasuble and the dalmatic, under the cope but above the
mozeta.
 Bishop’s Ring – The ring worn by the Bishop at all times as a sign
that he is wedded to Christ in the service of the Church.
 Zucchetto – The Violet cap worn by the Bishop, Purple cap for
the Arch Bishop, Red cap for the Cardinals and white for the
Pope.
 Pallium – A vestment given by the pope to a residential Arch
Bishop. They wear it above their chasuble in their jurisdictional
territory.

Attire and Decorum

 Attire –The recommended uniform for the Ministry of Altar
Servers are the following:
 Cassock and Surplice (cape for special occations)
 Plain white undershirt (when serving should be tucked in);
 Black pants (no denim);
 Black / white socks;
 Black leather shoes;
 Insignia, such as pins and Cross
 Personal grooming- Before serving, Altar Servers must come to
church with presentable decorum and proper grooming. This
includes the following:
 Appropriate haircut (2 X 3 hair cut)’
 With no artificial hair color or unnatural hairstyles;
 Clean hands and neatly trimmed fingernails;
 Mustache must be clean-shaven( for older servers only)
 No jewelry;
 Basic hygiene is indispensable

Duties and Responsibilities:

 To have a knowledge of the vessels they are to use for the
celebration of the liturgy, as well as the proper use of these,
including , but not limited to the following:
 Liturgical Vestments
 Sacred Vessels
 Altar Linen
 To ensure the care and maintenance of vessels used for the
celebration of the liturgy, including, but not limited to the
following:
 Processional cross;
 Thurible and boat;
 Bells;
 Module 6
MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Module 6 – The Basic Postures and Gestures

An Altar Server must know and understand every posture appropriate for
the ceremony. And he should also know all the actions that should be done in
every part of the Mass. As a Server you should know when to move, walk and to
bow.

The Hands:
 Your hands must always be clean, with clean fingernails. Wash
them before you serve for you will handle things which are holy.
 Joined hands are held before the breast at 45 degrees, palms
together, fingers extended, thumbs crossed, right over left.
 When one of your hands is occupied, place the other hand
open on your breast.
 When seated, put your hands on your knees.
Standing:
 An altar Server’s head should be kept straight. The body is
relaxed but erect, shoulders back. The feet are together. The
hands are together before the breast at 45 degrees, palms
together, fingers extended, thumbs crossed, right over left.
Walking:
 While walking, walk solemnly, dignified and deliberately. Know
where to go and walk there with head straight, shoulders back,
and hand held properly.
Sitting:
 When sitting, keep back straight and tall. The hand should be
placed at the lap. The feet should be flat on the ground.
Kneeling:
 When kneeling, allow the body weight be equally distributed on
both knees. Leave the feet uncrossed and keep the hands in
praying position.
Genuflecting:
 Single Genuflecting – One goes down on their right knee,
keeping the left one upright, from a standing position. The server
gets back up, but not like a spring, that is, quickly. Nor slowly
(with exception to medical issues).
 Double Genuflect – starts from the single genuflection position.
This genuflection involved both knees planted on the ground,
the servers’ hands still in the orans position (unless carrying an
object) and a moderate bow is made.
Bowing:
 Shoulder Bow – both the head and the shoulders moves as one
action. Bow only slightly forward
 Waist Bow – both the head and the shoulder move together but
with the bending of the waist.

Duties and Responsibilities

 To have a knowledge about the basic postures and gestures;
 To understand the meaning of each postures and gestures used
in every Liturgy.
 Prayers

Altar Server's Prayer

Open my mouth, O Lord, to bless your Holy Name.

Cleanse my heart from all evil and distracting thoughts.
Enlighten my understanding and inflame my will that I may serve more worthily
at your holy altar. O Mary, Mother of Christ the High Priest, obtain for me the
most important grace of knowing my vocation in life. Grant me a true spirit of
faith and humble obedience so that I may ever behold the priest as a
representative of God and willing to follow him in the Way, the Truth, and the
Life of Christ. Amen.

Altar Server’s Prayer of Thanksgiving After Mass

O Lord, Jesus Christ, Eternal High Priest, I thank you for the privilege of having
served at the holy altar of Your sacrifice.
Now, as I put aside the garments of that service, I ask that I may at all times think
of You, and always act accordingly, as a privileged altar server.
May I ever seek You and find You;
may I always follow You;
may your priestly spirit be my guide,
and your service of love be my example.
May your Holy Name always be on my lips, and to Your praise and glory may
every work of mine be done.
Ever ready in Your service,
may I always know and do Your Holy Will in all things.
May I remain pure and blameless
and be found worthy to be Your servant,
and by Your grace may I persevere to the end.
Amen.
A Server’s Prayer

Loving Father, creator of the universe,

you call your people to worship,
to be with you and with one another at Mass.
I thank you for having called me to assist others in their prayer to you.
May I be worthy of the trust placed in me and through my example and service
bring others closer to you.
I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ,
who is Lord for ever and ever. Amen.

To An Altar Server
To be Christ’s page at the altar,
To serve Him freely there,
Where even angels falter,
Bowed low in reverent prayer.
To touch the throne most holy,
To hand the gifts for the feast.
To see Him meekly, lowly,
Descend at the word of the priest.
To hear man’s poor petition,
To sound the silvery bell,
When he in sweet submission,
Comes down with us to dwell.
No grander mission surely
Could saints or men enjoy:
No heart should love more purely,
Than yours who serve with joy.
God bless you child forever,
And keep you in his care.
And guard you that you never
Belie the robes you wear.
For white bespeaks untainted
A heart both tried and true:
And red tells love the sainted
And holy martyrs knew.
Throughout your life, then, endeavor
God’s graces to do right;
And be in heart forever
God’s witness and God’s knight.

Prayer Before Mass

Oh Jesus, my King and Lord, by the grace of the heavenly Father and the power
of the Holy Spirit, guide me in all righteousness as I serve You today at the Altar
so I may be always worthy of Your presence. If I happen to make an error, may it
be a lesson so my service will be perfect tomorrow. Jesus, I love you with all my
heart. Amen.

Prayer After Mass

Lord Jesus, thank you for the opportunity to serve You during the Holy Mass. In
Your Sacred Presence, my heart is filled with joy and peace. May Your Spirit
always guide me so I may grow in Your love by the grace of the Heavenly
Father. Amen.