
CRUCIFER CARRYING THE CROSS
LEADING THE ACOLYTES

ACOLYTES SERVED IN THE
CHURCH CONSECRATION
ACOLYTE
As a brief history,, acolytes are mentioned in Cyprian's writings. They assisted deacons or subdeacons at the preparation of the table. Later they carried candles in processions. In Rome they carried fragments of the bread consecrated at the papal Mass to other churches.
In the late middle ages, when candles began to appear upon altars, they lighted the altar candles. Eventually lay servers or sacristans performed duties earlier associated with acolytes, and the order of acolyte was normally conferred upon a candidate for priesthood in the course of his training.
In the later nineteenth century duties were largely taken over by lay "acolytes" and sacristans or altar guilds.
CRUCIFER
Crucifer comes from the
Latin term
"Crucufer" (cross-bearer)
from "crux" (cross) +fero {I carry, bear).
THURIFER
The server or acolyte who carries and
swings the thurible, the incense container,
which holds the incense that will be used
during the Eucharist and other liturgies.
Additionally, the Thurifer, the celebrant,
the deacon or other ministers may use
the thurible in the ceremonial censing
of people or objects, such as the gospel
book or the altar.


Pat Gautreaux helps a young
acolyte light the candles.
Acolytes in Service
If you are interested in serving as an
acolyte, crucifer or thurifer and serving
in this long-lasting ministry, Please
contact our Acolyte Mentors,
Charles Burrell or Sam Hyde