Ministri   Sacri   Altaris: Catholic  Altar  servers  of Notre  dame

Guided by Faith, Serving with Reverence

​Vision
To support and enhance the sacred liturgy by fostering a reverent and prayerful environment through the service of altar servers.
Mission
Our mission is to assist in the celebration of the Mass with diligence, humility, and devotion, enriching the worship experience for our faith community.

Altar Servers
Altar servers are those who have received First Holy Communion and must be in the third grade or higher. Training is offered throughout the year. Youths and adults serve.

Altar Servers Manual

Altar Server Training Guide

Altar Serving Tutorial: Video

Altar Server Training video

Altar Servers Coordinators: Corrine Flores and Savannah Riche

Altar  servers coordinators'  guide

​Being a leader of Altar Servers in a Catholic parish is a rewarding responsibility that involves guiding and mentoring young individuals in their service to the Church. Here are some instructions and guidelines for effectively leading Altar Servers:

1. Model Christian Virtues: As a leader, demonstrate Christian virtues such as humility, reverence, and responsibility. Your conduct should inspire the altar servers to grow in faith and commitment to their service.
2. Provide Clear Instructions: Clearly explain the roles and responsibilities of altar servers. Conduct training sessions to teach them how to serve Mass reverently and efficiently.
3. Emphasize Reverence and Respect: Teach altar servers the importance of reverence in the sanctuary. Emphasize the significance of their role in assisting during Mass and other liturgical celebrations.
4. Encourage Regular Attendance: Encourage altar servers to attend Mass regularly and be punctual for their assigned duties. Foster a sense of commitment and reliability among the team.
5. Promote Spiritual Growth: Organize spiritual activities such as retreats, prayer sessions, or reflections for altar servers to deepen their faith and understanding of the Mass.
6. Provide Feedback and Encouragement: Offer constructive feedback to altar servers to help them improve in their roles. Acknowledge and appreciate their efforts and dedication.
7. Ensure Proper Vestments and Preparation: Ensure that altar servers are properly vested and prepared before each liturgical celebration. Teach them the significance of each item of vestment they wear.
8. Maintain Discipline and Order: Maintain discipline during liturgical celebrations. Instruct altar servers on proper behavior and decorum in the sanctuary.
9. Delegate Responsibilities: Assign specific tasks to experienced altar servers to assist in training and leading newer members of the team.
10. Cultivate a Sense of Community: Foster a sense of camaraderie and unity among altar servers. Encourage them to support and help one another in their service.
11. Promote Ongoing Formation: Encourage altar servers to deepen their knowledge of the liturgy and Church teachings. Provide resources for their ongoing formation and learning.
12. Communicate with Parents and Parish Staff: Maintain open communication with parents of altar servers regarding schedules, training sessions, and any important updates. Collaborate with parish staff to ensure smooth coordination of liturgical celebrations.
13. Pray Together: Encourage altar servers to pray together before and after serving Mass, fostering a sense of prayerful community among them.
14. Lead by Example: Above all, lead by example through your own commitment to prayer, reverence, and faithful service to the Church.

 
By following these instructions, you can effectively lead altar servers, nurturing their faith, and guiding them in their important ministry of service at the altar.

Strategies  to  build  Altar  Servers  in  a  catholic  parish

Building and nurturing a strong team of Altar Servers in a Catholic parish involves implementing effective strategies to recruit, train, and retain volunteers who are committed to serving at the altar. Here are some strategies to help build and develop your Altar Servers ministry:

1. Promote Ministry Opportunities: Raise awareness about the Altar Servers ministry within the parish community. Use bulletin announcements, pulpit announcements, and social media platforms to invite interested individuals to join.
2. Recruit Young Parishioners: Target young parishioners who have received their First Holy Communion and show interest in serving at Mass. Reach out to families and catechists to encourage participation in the Altar Servers ministry.
3. Provide Training and Formation: Offer comprehensive training sessions for new Altar Servers. Teach them about the parts of the Mass, proper procedures for serving, and the importance of reverence and attentiveness during liturgical celebrations.
4. Pair New Servers with Mentors: Assign experienced Altar Servers as mentors to new recruits. This pairing helps new servers learn from seasoned servers and feel supported in their role.
5. Celebrate and Recognize Their Service: Acknowledge the contributions of Altar Servers during Mass or parish events. Consider hosting an annual appreciation dinner or ceremony to honor their commitment.
6. Offer Ongoing Formation: Provide opportunities for continuous learning and spiritual growth. Organize workshops, retreats, or seminars focused on the liturgy, prayer life, and the importance of their ministry.
7. Engage Parents and Families: Foster support from parents by explaining the significance of their child’s involvement as an Altar Server. Encourage families to attend Mass together and participate in parish activities.
8. Create a Sense of Community: Organize social activities for Altar Servers to bond outside of Mass. This can include picnics, movie nights, or service projects that strengthen relationships among team members.
9. Ensure Regular Scheduling: Establish a reliable scheduling system that accommodates Altar Servers’ availability. Rotate assignments fairly and communicate schedules well in advance.
10. Provide Appropriate Vestments and Equipment: Ensure Altar Servers have proper vestments and access to necessary equipment for serving at Mass. Maintain these items in good condition and replace them as needed.
11. Encourage Prayer and Devotion: Foster a prayerful environment among Altar Servers. Encourage them to participate in Eucharistic adoration, pray the Liturgy of the Hours, or develop personal prayer habits.
12. Involve Servers in Special Liturgical Celebrations: Offer opportunities for Altar Servers to serve at special liturgical events such as Holy Week, Christmas, or feast day Masses. This enhances their experience and deepens their understanding of the Church’s liturgical calendar.
13. Seek Feedback and Input: Regularly solicit feedback from Altar Servers about their experiences and suggestions for improvement. This demonstrates that their opinions are valued and helps identify areas for growth.
14. Pray for Vocations: Encourage Altar Servers to discern their vocations and consider religious life or priesthood. Support them with prayers and guidance as they discern God’s call in their lives.

 
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively build and strengthen the Altar Servers ministry in your Catholic parish, fostering a spirit of service, devotion, and community among young members of your faith community.