The ministry of the acolyte dates back to the early church nearly 2,000 years ago and, while the official duties have evolved over the time, the primary purpose of the acolyte has always been to serve the Altar and the Priests. For the most part, this service means carrying out the duties which you see in our weekly services such as processing the Cross, processing the Gospel, and assisting in setting the Altar for the Eucharist. However, in addition to the more formal duties, there are many less formal, behind-the-scenes tasks that acolytes perform all in an effort to allow the Clergy to focus on leading the congregational worship (like figuring out how to disengage the fire alarm). In all duties, whether formal or informal, acolytes are called to be selfless and reverent servants in the worship of the Almighty – both a humbling and awesome experience.

The Acolyte ministry is in need of new members to fill the ranks in 2010. The commitment is rather minimal and involves some initial training, some on-the-job training, and serving approximately once a month at the 10 a.m. service. The ministry is open to all parishioners.

Please contact Tripp Hemphill at jthemphill76@yahoo.com or 707.257.6411 for more information.