 Acolytes
Young people are warmly welcomed into the ministry of acolyting at Emmanuel Church. Through annual or semiannual training sessions, an effort is made to create an atmosphere wherein the acolytes may be confident in their roles and upright in their involvement in the solemnity of the service. At the same time they are relaxed in the knowledge of the moral support, gratitude and appreciation they receive from both priest and congregation. Training sessions are generally followed by pizza meals so that fellowship is fully felt!
In the spring of 2002, the roles and duties of the three acolyte positions were redefined and clarified:
Crucifer: The Crucifer is seen as the "head" of the acolyting team and is asked to take responsibility for helping to guide the others before and during the service. The Crucifer carries the Cross in and out, sits in the sanctuary, and assists with Communion.
Flag bearer: The Flag bearer carries the United States flag in and out, sits in the chancel, dispenses and collects the offering plates, and helps with the flow of people at the altar rail during Communion. Crucifers and Flag bearers are generally aged 12 and older.
Torchbearer: The New role of Torchbearer was introduced to give those as young as 9 or 10 a chance to get involved in the service. The two torchbearers have only to process and recess together following the cross, yet they can observe the jobs of the more experienced acolytes. They sit in the nave, flanking the baptismal font.
For more information, please contact Dan Butterfield through the church office at 540-456-6334.
Updated
11/12/2008
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