The Altar Servers' Handbook

The 1962 edition of the handbook for the Archconfraternity of St. Stephen, the prima primaria guild for altar servers!

 

From the Preface of Cardinal Bernard Griffin (Archbishop of Westminster, London, England):

 

"I welcome the appearance of a new edition of the hand book of the Archconfraternity of Saint Stephen for Altar Servers. I thank and congratulate its present compiler and wish every blessing to its readers.

 

To serve at the altar, as to sing in the choir, is next to the priesthood the highest privilege which a layman can enjoy. He represents the faithful and takes a most intimate part in the rich treasures of the Church’s liturgy and ceremonial. Those sacred ceremonies should be carried out with devotion, dignity and attention to detail.

 

I would say, therefore, to those who use this manual:  Remember that whether you hold the office of Master of Ceremonies, or the more humble one of Torch Bearer, that you are in the service of the King of Kings and are always on parade. The success and the rhythm of a parade is secured by the attention given by each member to the minutest detail. So pay the greatest attention to every small detail.

 

But the value of your service will be measured and indeed enhanced by your own sanctity and by the personal love you have for our Blessed Lord and devotion to His sacred mysteries. This manual will help you to secure this."

 

Features the:

Guild's Object, History, Membership, Rules and Organization

Directions for the Postulant

Manner of Serving (Benediction, Low, Missa Cantata and Solemn Masses)

Devotions for servers

Hymn of St. Stephen

Ceremony of Enrollment

 

Softcover. 72 pages.