Serving in the Chapel

Normally there are two servers in the chapel. On arriving come in the sacristy door on the side of the chapel. Put on an alb and cincture, and then take the candles from of the ambo into the stands by the window in the sacristy. Divide the jobs, one server takes the book, the other lights the candles. Ask the priest or deacon if they need any help

At the priest’s direction both servers take a candle and go to the back of the chapel, usually going outside. They wait in the back of the main aisle until the priest rings the bell or the music begins. They go up the first step go off to the left, wait for the priest and bow with him. They place their candles by the ambo and go to their seats, the book bearer at the priests left, and the candle lighter at the side

chair at the priest’s right.

When the priest says “Let us pray the book bearer holds the book for him.

After the petitions the candle lighter lights the candles at the altar.

The book bearer takes the book to the altar placing it left of center, and brings the chalice and corporal, along with the paten and pall if present, from the credence table to the right side of the altar. The water, purificators, and other cups are also brought to the altar.

When the priest goes down to receive the gifts both servers go down with him and bring anything they are handed back to the priest or deacon.

The candle bearer takes the empty flagon back to the credence

Both servers wash the priest’s hands. Then at the “Holy, Holy” both servers kneel for the Eucharistic prayer on the second step.

 The candle lighter takes the bells, which are rung as on Sundays.

During communion both servers clear the altar, folding the corporal carefully. On Fridays the corporal is left on the altar. They then return to their seats

When the priest says “let us pray” after communion the book bearer brings up the book.

At the end of Mass, the servers process out carrying nothing, bowing to the altar with the priest at the beginning of Mass.

Both hang up their albs and offer to help clean up if help is needed.

If three servers are there the third server carries the cross.

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