Altar Server & Lector

Altar Servers

Altar Servers, commonly called an altar boy or altar girl, are children or teenagers who assist a priest during Mass. Their name comes from the Latin word ministrare which means "to serve". Altar servers should receive proper formation before they begin their ministry. The formation should include instruction on the Mass and its parts and their meaning, the various objects used in the liturgy (their names and use), and the various functions of the Altar Server during the Mass and other liturgical celebrations.

Lectors Reading

Lectors are parish laypersons who publicly read scripture during Sunday Mass, as well as other liturgical celebrations.

The proclamation of the Word of God is truly a service to the Church. Lectors bring the living Word of God to the liturgical assembly. The ministry of the Word should, therefore, be treated seriously and with great dignity. (GIRM 55)