ALTAR BOYS GUIDELINES

It is important that you are prompt when coming to serve. Altar Boys  should be in the Vestry by 9:50 a.m. for Sunday Divine Liturgy. You should be here 15 minutes before other Divine Services.
           
In your preparation to serve, please make sure that you have washed  your face and hands, your hair is neatly combed and that you are wearing appropriate clothing. Appropriate clothing consists of a shirt with collar (dress shirt preferred), tie (optional), dark pants (no jeans, shorts) and black or dark brown shoes (no gym shoes). Needless to say, there is no candy or gum allowed while serving.
           
Put your robe on and bring your belt folded to receive a blessing from Fr. Mark. Those Altar Boys wearing black cassocks should put them on and come to receive a blessing from Fr. Mark.
           
An integral part of serving as an Altar Boy is that you are attentive during the Services, and ready to help when called upon.  Make sure that you take a blue Divine Liturgy book to follow the service, sing the responses and learn what needs to be done at certain points of the service. Always be alert to do any task that the Co-Captains or Fr. Mark asks you to do.
           
The Holy Sanctuary is the place where we conduct our worship to God. It is also the place where Jesus Christ Himself is present in the Tabernacle on the Holy Altar Table. Our behavior must reflect this by not talking or whispering needlessly. It is inappropriate to laugh or make jokes during the services.
           
As a reminder, all Altar Boys should walk behind the Holy Altar Table when moving from one side of the Holy Sanctuary to the other. When you pass in front of the cross, make the sign of the cross over yourself. You should move slowly, and not run.
           
Part of your responsibility is to properly take care of your robe/cassock. Please make sure your robe is hung neatly on a hanger with your belt. If you notice a loose button or tear, let one of the Co-Captains know so that we can have it fixed.
           
Finally, it is a privilege for both Altar Boys and Clergy to be in God's Holy Sanctuary. We must remember to serve the Lord with gladness and joy. The commitment we make to serve is a reflection of our faith, devotion and love for God, His Church and the faithful of our Annunciation Parish Family.
           
If you have any questions concerning the services, these guidelines, or anything related to being an Altar Boy, please do not hesitate to ask Fr. Mark.
           
May God bestow upon you His Grace and Love as you offer your time and talent to serve Him!