Altar Servers
Altar Servers assist the priest and deacon in the celebration of the Mass so the liturgy can be conducted with grace and reverence. They assist the presider at the chair and at the altar by carrying the processional cross, lighting the candles, holding the books, setting the altar, carrying the incense and a variety of other tasks during the service. This ministry helps to develop a sense of participation in parish life and a love for the church’s liturgical life, while growing closer to God in one’s own life. It also offers an opportunity to understand the rewards of service toward others and their community. Altar Servers assist all Masses, Stations of the Cross, Benediction, and other special events. Parish boys in 4th grade and up are eligible for this ministry.
We encourage all boys to take an active role in serving the people of St. Thomas More parish. I would like to invite him to become one of the young men who serve as an altar boy of the Cathedral. It is a great honor to be an altar boy and to have the opportunity to serve God in a very special way. To be eligible to join the Altar Server Corps a boy must: (1) be a registered parishioner or student at the Cathedral of St. Thomas More School; (2) have received his First Holy Communion; and (3) be in at least the 4th grade.
Serving is a big commitment, both for the boy and his parents. We depend heavily on our servers and expect each member to be present when scheduled. I realize that it is you who will have to check his monthly schedule and transport your son to his scheduled Masses. Therefore, it is important that both of you understand the responsibility of the task he will be undertaking and make a commitment to serving at the altar. It’s not easy, but it is an outstanding opportunity for your son to develop a deeper understanding of his religion and all the ceremonies, Masses, and sacraments associated with it. It’s also an excellent opportunity for him to better discern his calling in life. I can honestly assure you that no matter what, his experience as an Altar Server is something that you both will fondly remember for the rest of your lives.
Training for new altar boys normally consists of three, 2-hour sessions. Training for Fall 2023 dates have not been determined.
Each class will meet in the priests’ Sacristy. Parents are invited and strongly encouraged to attend also. Upon completion of their training, new altar boys will be included on the following month’s schedule, serving at the weekday Masses.
If you are interested in having your son serve, please complete the information on the link below.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at (703) 525-1300 or e-mail me at the address below. I sincerely hope that your son will take advantage of this opportunity and find the joy of serving at God’s altar.
Register Online Here
Altar Server Handbook – updated 2022
Please contact Fr. Nicholas Barnes for further information. You can reach Fr. Barnes by phone at 703-525-1300.