Formation Program for Altar Servers | Leader's Guide
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THE EPISTLE St
THE EPISTLE St. Philip’s Episcopal Church 342 East Wood Street Palatine, Illinois 60067-5357 (847) 358-0615 www.stphilipspalatine.org http://www.facebook.com/stphilipspalatine The Rev. Jim Stanley, Rector Dear friend in Christ, What does your faith in Jesus mean to you? Has your Christian faith seen you through some tough times? Does the knowledge that you are "sealed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism and marked as Christ's own forever" (BCP p. 308) bring you hope and comfort for your future? Have there been times when a particular passage of Scripture has lifted you? I'm sure most people reading this know exactly what I mean. I don't want us to simply stop with being grateful for our faith. Be thankful, yes; but the same Lord who has so comforted and encouraged us, has also urged us to serve others. Jesus expects us to work for justice and peace. We are to feed the hungry, advocate for the poor, comfort the widow and orphan. May we never lose sight of this Great Commandment to do to others as we would have done to ourselves! In addition to leaving us with a Great Commandment, our Lord also assigned us a Great Commission. Just before He ascended to His Father in Heaven, Jesus told His disciples -- 1 and by extension, all who would come to believe in Him in the future -- to "Go into all the world and proclaim His Good News, making disciples of all nations and baptizing in the Name of the Holy Trinity." Jesus ordered that His message be taken "to the uttermost parts of the earth". -
Altar Server Defs
Definitions Here is an alphabetical listing of the names, places and things that Altar Servers should know. Memorize these terms and know how to find the places and identify the objects. ALB - The long white garment worn by Priests, Deacons and Altar Servers. ALTAR - The holy table upon which the Priest offers the sacrifice of the Mass. ALTAR CLOTH - The white cloth covering the Altar. AMBO (also called a lectern or pulpit) - The stand from which the Word of God is proclaimed during the Readings of sacred scripture. BOAT A vessel used to carry the grains of incense before the incense is placed in the Thurible. CHALICE The large gold or silver cup that is used by the Priest that holds the wine to be consecrated and become the Blood of Christ. CINCTURE The long cord or rope sometimes worn around the waist over the Alb. CIBORIUM The special sacred vessel used to hold consecrated hosts. COPE A long cape the priest or deacon wears for certain services, such as Benediction. CORPORAL A large white cloth that goes on top of the altar cloth. All sacred vessels are placed on the corporal. For example, the chalices and the ciborium. CREDENCE TABLE The side table where the sacred vessels, containing the offerings that are to be consecrated into the Body and Blood of Christ, are kept. 1 CRUETS Small, crystal bottles with a stopper used for water or wine. HAND WASHING TOWEL (also referred to as finger towel) Used by the Priest to dry his hands after the ritual washing during Mass. -
Liturgy As Ethicizer: Cultivating Ecological Consciousness Through a Coptic Orthodox Liturgical Ethos
Sacred Heart University DigitalCommons@SHU Catholic Studies Faculty Publications Catholic Studies 2020 Liturgy as Ethicizer: Cultivating Ecological Consciousness through a Coptic Orthodox Liturgical Ethos Stephen M. Meawad Follow this and additional works at: https://digitalcommons.sacredheart.edu/cath_fac Part of the Christian Denominations and Sects Commons, Environmental Studies Commons, and the Ethics in Religion Commons 1 Stephen M. Meawad Liturgy as Ethicizer: Cultivating Ecological Consciousness through a Coptic Orthodox Liturgical Ethos 1 – Introduction Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s recent expression of its ecological concern has been vast and strong, evidenced by its designation of September 1st as a day of prayer for the “protection of the environment” and also through the scholarly contributions of more than a dozen theologians and religious figures, including Patriarch Bartholomew, Elizabeth Theokritoff, and John Chryssavgis.1 Much of this witness can and does extend to Oriental Orthodoxy in numerous respects.2 Among others, some examples include similarities in the doctrine of creation, proper relation to non-human animals, spiritual degradation as a precursor to ecological degradation, and extending love of neighbor to include all of creation. Yet, analyzing ways that other families of Orthodoxy conceive of the relationship between ecology and theology—a promising endeavor—has remained largely untapped contemporarily. This project will examine the liturgical ethos of the Coptic Orthodox Church and how this ethos is effective in creating self-sustaining, ecologically aware communities. A more comprehensive version of this project would develop what might be called a politeia (behavior or ethos of a given community) of the Coptic Orthodox Church that would include monasticism and asceticism; fasting; agriculture and co-stewardship; and self-sustenance. -
Thurifer at Missa Cantata
THURIFER AT MISSA CANTATA GENERAL AND HISTORICAL NOTES The Thurifer (Th) has the privilege of bearing the thurible during Mass and of the office of incensing the inferior ministers and the laity. The word thurible is derived from thus, which is Latin for incense. It is generally thought, that the thurible used by the Jews was very similar as employed at Mass now, that is, with three chains, though it is unknown if the Jewish thuribles had a cover. The thurible is also considered to be a liturgical object of great value in its symbolic use, as the thuribles made by the Jews were made of solid gold. This was perhaps done so as to imitate the Altar of Incense (on which incense was burnt three times a day), that stood outside the Temple, which was made of gold plate over wood. The history of the use of incense is very ancient, dating back to earliest ages. Incense was widely used by both the Jews in the Temple ceremonies, as commanded by Almighty God Himself, as well as by the pagan religions. In ancient times, burning incense was also used as an air freshener in countries under Roman or Asian influence; it too was used to incense the guests as a mark of respect at banquets. In fact incense was so widely used, that God Himself commanded the Jews, that the incense compound made for use in the Temple ceremonies, was to be used expressly for the Temple (i.e., God), under the penalty of death, so that it could not be used for secular functions. -
SAINT BASIL the GREAT ALTAR SERVER MANUAL Prayers of An
SAINT BASIL THE GREAT ALTAR SERVER MANUAL Prayers of an Altar Server O God, You have graciously called me to serve You upon Your altar. Grant me the graces that I need to serve You faithfully and wholeheartedly. Grant too that while serving You, may I follow the example of St. Tarcisius, who died protecting the Eucharist, and walk the same path that led him to Heaven. St. Tarcisius, pray for me and for all servers. ALTAR SERVER'S PRAYER Loving Father, Creator of the universe, You call Your people to worship, to be with You and each other at Mass. Help me, for You have called me also. Keep me prayerful and alert. Help me to help others in prayer. Thank you for the trust You've placed in me. Keep me true to that trust. I make my prayer in Jesus' name, who is with us in the Holy Spirit. Amen. 1 PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THIS TOP SHEET IMMEDIATELY To the Parent/ Guardian of ______________________________(server): Thank you for supporting your child in volunteering for this very important job as an Altar Server. Being an Altar Server is a great honor – and a responsibility. Servers are responsible for: a) knowing when they are scheduled to serve, and b) finding their own coverage if they cannot attend. (email can help) The schedule is emailed out, prior to when it begins. The schedule is available on the Church website, and published the week before in the Church Bulletin. We have attached the, “St. Basil Altar Server Manual.” After your child attends the two server training sessions, he/she will most likely still feel unsure about the job – that’s OK. -
St. James Community of Faith the Ministry of Acolyte Fall, 2016
St. James Community of Faith The Ministry of Acolyte Fall, 2016 Ministry, is first of all, receiving God’s blessing from those to whom we minister. What is this blessing? It is a glimpse of the face of God. ~Henri Nouwen Acolyte Ministry You are volunteering as a server at church. You light candles, hold the books, handle the vessels, and arrange the cloths. You help the other ministers focus on their work by simplifying their motions and eliminating distractions. You help the entire community celebrate Eucharist by your humble service. Your actions may seem routine, but everyone depends on you to do them without flash. When you serve well, no one notices you. People only notice when things go awry. Still, the Church relies on the assistance of adult servers. Whether in parishes, convents, monasteries, or chapels, adults serve Mass. They join in the prayer, and they assure the smooth execution of the liturgy. 1. Theology and History of the Server The word Eucharist means "thanksgiving". It comes from a Greek word. To this day, when modern Greeks say, "Thank you," they say Eucharisto." It is one of the most used words in the language. Mass is an act of thanksgiving. Through it we call to mind the great deeds God has done for us, and we express our gratitude for them. We do this especially in the prayers. The word Mass means "sending". It comes from the Latin words that conclude the service: Ite, missa est. It has been translated many ways, such as "Co forth, the Mass is ended." Or, more freely, "Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life." "Go, you have been sent." We call this part of Mass the dismissal, but it is not just a "sending from." It is a "sending to." We are not just ending our time of prayer together. -
Procedures for Reverencing the Tabernacle and the Altar Before, During and After Mass
Procedures for Reverencing the Tabernacle and the Altar Before, During and After Mass Key Terms: Eucharist: The true presence of Christ in the form of his Body and Blood. During Mass, bread and wine are consecrated to become the Body and Blood of Christ. Whatever remains there are of the Body of Christ may be reserved and kept. Tabernacle: The box-like container in which the Eucharistic Bread may be reserved. Sacristy: The room in the church where the priest and other ministers prepare themselves for worship. Altar: The table upon which the bread and wine are blessed and made holy to become the Eucharist. Sanctuary: Often referred to as the Altar area, the Sanctuary is the proper name of the area which includes the Altar, the Ambo (from where the Scriptures are read and the homily may be given), and the Presider’s Chair. Nave: The area of the church where the majority of worshippers are located. This is where the Pews are. Genuflection: The act of bending one knee to the ground whilst making the sign of the Cross. Soon (maybe even next weekend – August 25-26) , the tabernacle will be re-located to behind the altar. How should I respond to the presence of the reserved Eucharist when it will now be permanently kept in the church sanctuary? Whenever you are in the church, you are in a holy place, walking upon holy ground. Everyone ought to be respectful of Holy Rosary Church as a house of worship and prayer. Respect those who are in silent prayer. -
REACHING out a Celebration of the Work of the Choir Schools’ Association
REACHING OUT A celebration of the work of the Choir Schools’ Association The Choir Schools’ Association represents 46 schools attached to cathedrals, churches and college chapels educating some 25,000 children. A further 13 cathedral foundations, who draw their choristers from local schools, hold associate membership. In total CSA members look after nearly 1700 boy and girl choristers. Some schools cater for children up to 13. Others are junior schools attached to senior schools through to 18. Many are Church of England but the Roman Catholic, Scottish and Welsh churches are all represented. Most choir schools are independent but five of the country’s finest maintained schools are CSA members. Being a chorister is a huge commitment for children and parents alike. In exchange for their singing they receive an excellent musical training and first-class academic and all-round education. They acquire self- discipline and a passion for music which stay with them for the rest of their lives. CONTENTS Introduction by Katharine, Duchess of Kent ..................................................................... 1 Opportunity for All ................................................................................................................. 2 The Scholarship Scheme ....................................................................................................... 4 CSA’s Chorister Fund ............................................................................................................. 6 Finding Choristers ................................................................................................................. -
Location of Choir and Musical Instruments, January 2012
ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA Office for Liturgical Music 222 North Seventeenth Street ! Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103-1299 215-587-3696 www.ArchPhilaMusic.org www.CathedralPhilaConcerts.org LOCATION OF CHOIR AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS COMMENTARY OFFICE FOR WORSHIP ARCHDIOCESE OF PHILADELPHIA Sacrosanctum Concilium, the document of the Second Vatican Council on the Sacred Liturgy, speaks clearly of the importance of music in the liturgy and, while urging that “choirs … be diligently promoted,” insists that “religious singing by the people … be skillfully fostered.” Implicit is the recognition of the special service and gift given to the people of God by skilled ministers of music who are, at the same time, members of the community at prayer. Subsequent Church documents and statements by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops support, develop, and expand upon Sacrosanctum Concilium regarding music ministers. In particular, they speak of the proper location of the choir, cantor, and other musicians in the church building itself -- as both musicians and members of the assembly. The Office for Worship of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, based upon the norms expressed in liturgical documents regarding the placement of musicians, offers the following guidelines to pastors, musicians, and worship committees. Musicians (choir, cantor, instrumentalists), recognized and appreciated for the special gift they bring to the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy, must be located in the church in such a way that they are also clearly perceived to be members of the worshipping assembly. While lending their special training and skill, they must also be servants of the Sacred Liturgy and members of the community at prayer. -
The Rites of Holy Week
THE RITES OF HOLY WEEK • CEREMONIES • PREPARATIONS • MUSIC • COMMENTARY By FREDERICK R. McMANUS Priest of the Archdiocese of Boston 1956 SAINT ANTHONY GUILD PRESS PATERSON, NEW JERSEY Copyright, 1956, by Frederick R. McManus Nihil obstat ALFRED R. JULIEN, J.C. D. Censor Lib1·or111n Imprimatur t RICHARD J. CUSHING A1·chbishop of Boston Boston, February 16, 1956 PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA INTRODUCTION ANCTITY is the purpose of the "new Holy Week." The news S accounts have been concerned with the radical changes, the upset of traditional practices, and the technical details of the re stored Holy Week services, but the real issue in the reform is the development of true holiness in the members of Christ's Church. This is the expectation of Pope Pius XII, as expressed personally by him. It is insisted upon repeatedly in the official language of the new laws - the goal is simple: that the faithful may take part in the most sacred week of the year "more easily, more devoutly, and more fruitfully." Certainly the changes now commanded ,by the Apostolic See are extraordinary, particularly since they come after nearly four centuries of little liturgical development. This is especially true of the different times set for the principal services. On Holy Thursday the solemn evening Mass now becomes a clearer and more evident memorial of the Last Supper of the Lord on the night before He suffered. On Good Friday, when Holy Mass is not offered, the liturgical service is placed at three o'clock in the afternoon, or later, since three o'clock is the "ninth hour" of the Gospel accounts of our Lord's Crucifixion. -
Inviting a Response: the Altar Call in Contemporary Mission and Ministry in Britain and Ireland
WBC Journal Issue 1 August 2015 Inviting a Response: The altar call in contemporary mission and ministry in Britain and Ireland By Jonathan Roberts Abstract This article charts the use of the ‘altar call’ or ‘appeal’ from its beginnings in America in the 18th century, to its place in Britain and the early Salvation Army. It investigates its use in contemporary denominations within Britain and Ireland, and asks whether it remains an effective evangelistic method. It concludes that it still has a place within a process-orientated approach to evangelism and an overall emphasis upon the journey of faith, worship and ministry. A postmodern culture continues to value opportunities for symbolic public response in faith commitment and spiritual growth and development. Introduction Salvationists are accustomed to the sight of someone walking forward at the end of a sermon in response to an altar call – also known as an appeal or an invitation. It has been part of Salvation Army worship since the movement’s beginnings in 1865. William Booth had used the altar call as a Methodist minister in the 1850s and as a travelling revivalist in the 1860s. Its origins, however, lay on the other side of the Atlantic in the mid-eighteenth century. It was used infrequently to begin with, but by the end of the century it was fairly common among American Baptists, Congregationalists and especially Methodists. Then the camp meetings of the early nineteenth century led to it becoming a standard and commonplace evangelistic practice. These meetings derived from the Presbyterian tradition of holding four or five days of special communion services. -
Church and Liturgical Objects and Terms
Church and Liturgical Objects and Terms Liturgical Objects Used in Church The chalice: The The paten: The vessel which golden “plate” that holds the wine holds the bread that that becomes the becomes the Sacred Precious Blood of Body of Christ. Christ. The ciborium: A The pyx: golden vessel A small, closing with a lid that is golden vessel that is used for the used to bring the distribution and Blessed Sacrament to reservation of those who cannot Hosts. come to the church. The purificator is The cruets hold the a small wine and the water rectangular cloth that are used at used for wiping Mass. the chalice. The lavabo towel, The lavabo and which the priest pitcher: used for dries his hands after washing the washing them during priest's hands. the Mass. The corporal is a square cloth placed The altar cloth: A on the altar beneath rectangular white the chalice and cloth that covers paten. It is folded so the altar for the as to catch any celebration of particles of the Host Mass. that may accidentally fall The altar A new Paschal candles: Mass candle is prepared must be and blessed every celebrated with year at the Easter natural candles Vigil. This light stands (more than 51% near the altar during bees wax), which the Easter Season signify the and near the presence of baptismal font Christ, our light. during the rest of the year. It may also stand near the casket during the funeral rites. The sanctuary lamp: Bells, rung during A candle, often red, the calling down that burns near the of the Holy Spirit tabernacle when the to consecrate the Blessed Sacrament is bread and wine present there.