The dignity that a minister can bring to the Altar during Mass is a very special one in that he or she is graced with the opportunity to participate in the Mass in a way that furthers the solemnity of the Liturgy.
Each person is called to bring themselves to every Mass in their own unique way and to offer the gift of themselves to the Lord according to the the way that Our Lord calls each of us.
Whether it be those who are participating in the pew, those taking up the collection or those who are ministering on the altar, we all are contributing to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass through the effort we bring to the Mass.
In regard to the ministry of Server, Lector/Reader or Acolyte, these personal gifts possess certain expectations, such as proper attire and appropriate preparation before each Liturgy.
Servers and Acolytes are expected to wear dress shoes and slacks/pants that, when seen by the congregation, promote the dignity of the sacredness of the Liturgy and give due honor and glory to God. Lectors/Readers are expected to dress in an attire that holds the dignity of "dressiness."
If a Server, Acolyte or Reader is unable to serve at their assigned time, it is up to that minister to find a replacement at an appropriate time before the day of their assignment.
One reality that must be kept in check for all ministers is to prevent the search for a replacement shortly before Mass begins. This action takes away from the proper preparation necessary for all ministers for Holy Mass, and the "rushing around" draws inappropriate attention and downplays the sacredness of the Liturgy.
The gifts that each person brings to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is important and greatly appreciated!
Each person is called to bring themselves to every Mass in their own unique way and to offer the gift of themselves to the Lord according to the the way that Our Lord calls each of us.
Whether it be those who are participating in the pew, those taking up the collection or those who are ministering on the altar, we all are contributing to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass through the effort we bring to the Mass.
In regard to the ministry of Server, Lector/Reader or Acolyte, these personal gifts possess certain expectations, such as proper attire and appropriate preparation before each Liturgy.
Servers and Acolytes are expected to wear dress shoes and slacks/pants that, when seen by the congregation, promote the dignity of the sacredness of the Liturgy and give due honor and glory to God. Lectors/Readers are expected to dress in an attire that holds the dignity of "dressiness."
If a Server, Acolyte or Reader is unable to serve at their assigned time, it is up to that minister to find a replacement at an appropriate time before the day of their assignment.
One reality that must be kept in check for all ministers is to prevent the search for a replacement shortly before Mass begins. This action takes away from the proper preparation necessary for all ministers for Holy Mass, and the "rushing around" draws inappropriate attention and downplays the sacredness of the Liturgy.
The gifts that each person brings to the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is important and greatly appreciated!