Altar Servers
“Our true worth does not consist in what human beings think of us. What we really are consists in what God knows us to be.”
Saint John Berchmans, Patron Saint of 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. We invite them 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. We realize that it is parents who will have to check the monthly schedule and provide transport to scheduled Masses. Therefore, it is important that both understand the responsibility of the task they will be undertaking and make a commitment to serving at the altar. It is an outstanding opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of our religion and all the ceremonies, Masses, and sacraments associated with it. It’s also an excellent opportunity to better discern his calling in life. We assure you that no matter what, their 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 2026 dates have not been determined.
Each class will meet in the priests’ Sacristy. Parents are invited and strongly encouraged to attend. 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 Father Barnes at (703) 525-1300 or e-mail. We 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
