Writings from the second and third centuries AD suggest that there were altar servers, even then. They have a very specific role to play in the celebration of the Eucharist.
Servers carry the cross into and from Mass, the processional candles, holding the Book for the celebrant when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and the censer, present the bread, water and wine to the priest or deacon during the preparation of the gifts, wash the hands of the priest and assist the celebrant or the deacon as necessary.
At the beginning of each school year, the deacon contacts the school and asks them to speak to students who have received their first communion and enquire if any would like to become servers. The names are given to the deacon and letters are forwarded to parents of children who have indicated that they wish to train for altar serving.
The deacon then arranges for training times during school hours. These take place in the Benedict Campus Chapel. Training may take a month and then they will receive practical training during the celebration of the Mass. The deacon will be at the Mass to assist them.
Deacon Gary Stokes is the trainer and may be contacted by parents whose children have expressed interest or the school will handle applications.
Deacon’s phone number is 0429 333 720.