Acolyte training for the older children took place after Vacation Bible School on July 19, 2016. This was a special event – each child received a card in the mail from the priest to join the training.
The model for an acolyte comes from Samuel in the Old Testament: “In the meantime, the boy Samuel continued to serve the Lord, wearing a sacred linen apron. Each year his mother would make a little robe and take it to him when she accompanied her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice…The boy Samuel grew up in the service of the Lord.” 1 Samuel 2:18-21
Acolyte means an attendant or follower and Samuel is one of the first examples of an assistant to a priest. The acolyte assists the priest and enhances the worship service to help glorify God. An acolyte is one of the first times a child becomes a minister of the church who is called to serve God.
One of the acolyte’s primary duty is candle lighting. Candles remind us that Jesus is the Light of the World;they also recall the days of the early Christians when candles and oil lamps were the only sources of light indoors.
But an acolyte is more than a candle lighter. This person become a leader, a model for others. As described by Dennis G. Michno in A Manual for Acolytes: “The patron of those who serve at the altar is Vincent, Deacon and Martyr. He lived in the late third century, was martyred in the year 304, and is commemorated in our calendar on January 22. Vincent is remembered for his love of God, his faithfulness to his bishop, and his unswerving loyalty to his responsibilities. These traits–love, faithfulness, and loyalty–are virtues that all who are privileged to serve at the altar should cultivate."
A short gallery with "graduation pictures" from the 6 who became new acolytes:
Acolyte Training, July 19, 2016
July 19, 2016 (full size gallery)