San Roque Cathedral - Ministry of Altar Servers at A. Mabini St., Caloocan City, Metro Manila, Philippines, caloocan, National Capital Region 1400 PH - Learn more About Us

The Altar Servers

What is an Altar Server?

An altar server is a lay assistant to a member of the clergy during a religious service. What do they usually do? In Roman rite of the celebration of Mass, altar servers have the following responsibilities during * Gathering: Altar servers carry the processional cross and candles (the so-called flambeaux) at the front of the gathering procession. Others may carryincense and a thurible.

* Opening prayer (collect), if recited at the chair: Usually, an altar server holds the missal, so that the priest has both hands free. * Proclamation of the Gospel: If it is a regional habit, flambeaus and/or incense can be carried.
* Receiving the gifts of bread and wine: When the priest receiving these gifts, altar servers may assist him by carrying them. * Preparation of the chalice: Altar servers present the cruets of wine and water for the deacon or priest to put in the chalice.
* Lavabo: An altar server administers the water to the priest as he ritually washes his hands. * Ceremony of the Eucharist: Where customary, altar servers ring bells at important points during the Eucharistic Prayer.
* Postcommunion prayer, if said at the chair: As for the opening prayer, an altar server holds the missal in front of the priest.
* Ending procession: When the priest and the servers leave the altar, again the processional cross is carried, perhaps with flambeaux. In most ordinary situations, one altar server is enough, but many parishes prefer two or more altar servers. The weekday Liturgy usually only requires a single server, if any.

If a bishop celebrates Mass solemnly, more are required, so as to take care of mitre and crozier, as well as other functions. (source:Wikipedia.org)

       The Ministry of Altar Servers - San Roque Parish Cathedral A religious brotherhood composed of Catholic males aged 10 years and above who renders devoted and humble service to God by assisting in the liturgical celebrations and services of the Holy Catholic Church., specifically, the San Roque Parish Cathedral. Their principal office of the organization shall be located within the premises of San Roque Cathedral. Members are to be classified according to the age and level of training the Ministry would sponsor.

      The groupings shall be as follows:
a. Aspirant – young male who will undergo series of screening and intensive training to prepare them for the different tasks of being an altar server.
b. Junior – official member of the Ministry ages 15 years and below.
c. Senior – official member of the Ministry ages 16 years and above d. Elders – former coordinators and officers