The word Acolyte means “companion” or “one who helps.” An acolyte helps the pastor perform various tasks in the worship service. These tasks including lighting candles, leading processions and recessions, and helping with Holy Communion. To serve as an acolyte is a privilege given to 7^th through 9^th grade youth at  PIC Church.

 I. ATTITUDE. Because this ministry is a service to God and His people, you are to show respect toward all who attend the worship service. Sit with good posture (no slouching or legs crossed.) Participate along with the rest of the worshipers in all that is taking place in the service.

 II. APPEARANCE. Be neatly dressed, wearing clean clothes that will not show through your gown. Dark shoes are preferred, but are not mandatory. No chewing gum while serving.

 III. SPECIFIC DUTIES.

1.      Be present no later than 15 minutes before the service.

2.      Put on your robe when you arrive. Get the candle lighter located in the sacristy and return to the church office robing area where you will wait for prayers with the Pastors and Elders before the service.  If there is going to be a procession, be sure the cross or banner is in the narthex (lobby, back of church) before the service begins.

3.      Light the candles immediately after the bell rings.

a.       Proceed to the altar carrying the lit candle lighter.

b.      Give a slight bow of respect in front of the altar.

c.       Light the candles. (altar every week, Christ candle on Communion and Baptism weeks)

d.      Return to the front of the altar and give a slight bow of respect, then be seated on the pew chairs in the front row on the Ambo side (on the right as you face the front).

4.      During the hymn of preparation for the sermon, both acolytes relocate the podium to the center of the altar area.

5.      During Communion, one acolyte will stand behind the altar to collect the empty trays and take them to the other acolyte who is to be standing by the piano hallway. The empty trays are to be placed in the sacristy.

6.      Extinguish the candles at the end of the service during the singing of the closing hymn.

7.      After the service, return your candle lighter to the sacristy and hang up your robe in the church office area closet.

8.      If you cannot serve on an assigned day, find a substitute and notify the church office no later than Wednesday before the scheduled service so that names can be changed in the bulletin.