Our young people have been a terrific addition to the Sunday service since we re-started the acolyte ministry in September 2011. They are a true blessing, and we encourage others to join our acolytes as we continue to grow this part of our spiritual life.

Youth 7 to 16 years old are invited to join St. Alban's Acolyte program. For more information, contact John Minton or Jay Jones at the church.

St. Alban's 2011-12 Acolyte class photo. From left to right: Top row: Chandler Ball, SallieKate Keffer, Julianna Minton and Crystal Owens. Bottom row: Jason Ball and Katie Jones.

The word acolyte is derived from the Greek word "acolytes," meaning companion, attendant, or helper. The Acolyte ministry has its roots in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible, where the prophet Samuel is seen assisting Eli, the Levite priest, and Elisha is seen assisting Elijah the Prophet.

In Anglican churches - such as the Episcopal Church of the United States, the Church of England the Scottish Episcopal Church - altar servers are often called acolytes and can be of either sex and any age.

An acolyte can assist in worship by carrying a processional cross, lighting candles, holding the Gospel book, holding candles or "torches", assisting a deacon or priest set up and clean up at the altar, swinging a censer or thurible or carrying the incense boat, handing the offering plates to ushers, and many other tasks as seen fit by the priest or acolyte warden.

Acolyte Prayer

Almighty God, who has called us your servants to the sacred office of Acolyte in your church, that clothed in white we may minister before you, we pray your great mercy to guide, strengthen, and sanctify us by your Holy Spirit, that, always doing your will, we may both by our service in your house and by our daily life, please you and glorify your Name, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.