Altar Servers
Serving at the altar. Growing in faith. Helping lead our parish in prayer.
About the Ministry
Altar servers have a special role in the celebration of the Holy Mass. They assist the priest and deacon at the altar, helping ensure that the liturgy is celebrated with reverence, dignity, and care.
Through their service, altar servers contribute to the prayer and worship of the entire parish community. Their attentiveness, respect for the sacred liturgy, and willingness to serve help others participate more fully in the celebration of the Eucharist.
Serving at the altar is also an opportunity to grow closer to Jesus Christ, develop a deeper appreciation for the Mass, and discover the beauty of serving His Church.
What Do Altar Servers Do?
Altar servers assist the priest and deacon throughout the celebration of Mass. Depending on the liturgy and their assigned responsibilities, their duties may include:
- Assisting with the entrance and recessional processions.
- Carrying the processional cross and candles.
- Preparing the altar and assisting with the presentation of the gifts.
- Holding the Roman Missal for the priest when needed.
- Assisting with incense during Mass when it is used.
- Helping with other liturgical responsibilities as directed by the priest or deacon.
Above all, altar servers are expected to participate prayerfully, follow the movements of the liturgy, and carry out their responsibilities with reverence and attentiveness.
Who Can Serve?
Altar serving is a meaningful opportunity for members of our parish to take an active role in the celebration of the Mass.
Those interested in serving should have a desire to grow in their faith, participate reverently in the liturgy, and be willing to learn the responsibilities of the ministry.
Specific age, sacramental, and eligibility requirements are established by the parish. Families interested in having their children serve are encouraged to contact the parish office for more information.
Training and Preparation
No one is expected to know everything before beginning. New altar servers receive instruction and guidance to help them understand the Mass, become familiar with the sanctuary, and learn their responsibilities.
Training includes learning the parts of the Mass, the names and use of liturgical objects, the proper movements and responses, and the importance of reverence and appropriate conduct in the sanctuary.
For younger volunteers, the parish also follows the applicable Safe Environment requirements of the Diocese of Phoenix.
Serving at St. Clement of Rome
Altar servers are an important part of our parish’s liturgical life. Through their faithful service, they help prepare the way for the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and support the prayer of our parish family.
Whether serving at a daily Mass, Sunday liturgy, or special celebration, altar servers offer their time and attention in service to Christ and His Church.
Interested in Becoming an Altar Server?
We welcome those who are interested in learning more about this ministry. Whether you are a parent exploring opportunities for your child or a parishioner interested in serving, we would be happy to help you learn about the next steps.
For information about eligibility, training, and opportunities to serve, please contact the parish office.
We look forward to helping you discover the joy of serving at the altar!
Contact Information
St. Clement of Rome Catholic Parish
15800 N. Del Webb Blvd.
Sun City, AZ 85351
Phone: (623) 974-5867
“Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others.”
Colossians 3:23