Thoughts on:  ACOLYTES

An acolyte is part of an "order" in the church that goes back thousands of years.  Acolytes are attendants or helpers who assist the Pastor in Worship so that the whole family is led comfortably and easily through an exciting and reverent experience.

While it's true that just about anyone could light a candle, it's not so easy to know "when" and "in what order" and "why" things in a Worship service are done in a particular way.  Being ready to assist with anything (relaying messages, distributing the offering baskets, taking over in the nursery, running errands, standing, sitting and reading) - both to help the congregation, and to be constantly alert to assist the Pastor and Pastoral Aide - that takes a very special dedication and composure, that even lots of adults don't have.  You acolytes may not think about it, but your role in Worship - what you do and how you do it - helps to create a feeling or atmosphere that would not be the same without you.  Hey, Acolytes - you are some very special people!  Be on time, be aware, and be sharp.

Instructions & Helpful Hints

1.         Arrive 15 minutes early.

2.         Check with the Pastor or Pastoral Aide to see if there are any special instructions for the Worship service.

3.         Get any Worship Aides and put them on your chair.

4.         Check the tapers in the Sacristy to be sure the wicks are working and long enough. 

5.         Check the candles and wicks to be sure they are ready to light.

6.         Be sure that your attire is appropriate as a worship leader.

7.         Wait in the sacristy for prayer and Pastor's instructions.

8.         Enter reverently.  Light the candles.  Reverence.  Hang the tapers on the wall, one on each side of the altar rail.  Go to your seat.

9.         LEAD THE WORSHIP (Be FIRST to stand, kneel, sing, etc.).  Proper posture - don't slouch.  You're a worship leader!!  No gum chewing, feet swinging, ETC. 

10.       Hand out the offering baskets and wait for them to return, unless told otherwise by the Pastoral Aide.

11.       Come to the first communion table.

12.       Extinguish the candles.

13.       Straighten the burners.

14.       Walk out reverently and replace the tapers.

A SUMMARY

Don't ever think you are too old to be an acolyte - they are servants of God who help make our Worship special and unique.  And, by the way - all of us are thankful for your efforts.  A good prayer before worship could be:   "Father, thank you for letting me serve in your temple like Samuel did and help me to help others worship you.  In the name of THE servant - Jesus.  Amen."