Acolyte Training

What is an Acolyte? An acolyte is a helper. The origin of the word is Greek, which means “server”. Acolytes serve during worship service to assist the pastor.

What does an acolyte do during Sunday Service? It varies from church to church. In some churches they may only carry a processional cross in and out of Morning Service. In other churches they carry the bible, torches, and banners. They may assist with setting the table ready for communion and receiving the offering plates.

Dress and Decorum

Acolytes need to wear low-heeled Dark shoes. In hot months, dressy dark colored sandals are allowed. Please, no flip-flops or sneakers. Eat before coming to church. Hair needs to be clean and neat. NO GUM Acolytes need to be in the choir dressing room at least 15 minutes prior to the service. During big services like Christmas and Easter, they may be asked to be there earlier.

Needless to say, acolytes are expected to behave and sit still during church. They may not be excused during the service for any other reason than illness. Acolytes set an example for all other children. Participate in the entire service. In other words, pray the prayers, sing the hymns, and participate in the whole service. You are a leader in worship, leave your books and doodle pages at home. If acolytes are unsure about when to sit or stand during the service, watch the choir and do what they do. Be reverent at all times. Sit up straight in your pew, do not sit leaning over with your elbows on your knees. No cell phones or other electronic devices should be on during worship.

Getting Dressed When you are getting dressed, remember the three items that you need during the service: Alb, Cincture, Cross Necklace

To get to the Acolyte Closet

Crosses

The Waiting Area Before Going In

After you get dressed, grab the Bible, pitcher of water, or the candle lighter and stand with the choir and wait to walk in.

. Acolytes will receive the offering plates from the ushers; turn and stand in front of communion table holding the offering plates at chest level as the Pastor blesses the gifts. Offering plates should be placed on the stands by the pews that are near the front door

Ending the Service At the end of the service, on the last verse of the last hymn, the acolyte should put out the candles if used during worship. Walk up, light the candle lighter to take the light out to the world. Then put out the candle. Take the light through the door at the narthex, then put it out. Remember: Do not eat in the acolyte clothes. Go up to the acolyte closet and put the each garment on the proper hangers.

The Bible

The Candle Lighter

Paschal Candle

Opportunities Being an Acolyte is a wonderful opportunity for you to serve God in our church.

Opportunities Being an Acolyte is a wonderful opportunity for you to serve God outside our church.

Thank You!!! Thank you for choosing to serve!!!