St. Luke Anglican Catholic Church,   Augusta, Georgia

What Acolytes Do

Priest  - "I will go unto the Altar of God."
Server - "Even unto the God of my joy and gladness."
                                                   -from the Preparation for Mass (Psalm 43)

Although the term "Acolyte" means one who carries a torch lighting the path of the cross in processions, the term is also used to mean anyone who helps the clergy during a service. Acolytes may be asked to perform any jobs for which they are trained:

Crucifer - carries a processional cross

First Server - helps the priest prepare the elements for communion and clean up afterwards

Torchbearer - carries a torch to light the way of the crucifer or to provide light for reading the Gospel

Bannerbearer - carries a banner or flag in procession

Thurifer - carries a thurible (incense burner) in procession; may cense persons or groups

Acolytes may also be called on to "run errands" (fetch something, move something, hold something, or otherwise assist someone) during the service. Their training and experience allow them to do this without being conspicuous or interrupting the worship.