Acolyte

Young people are warmly welcomed into the ministry of acolyting at Grace Episcopal Church. Through annual or semiannual training sessions, an effort is made to create an atmosphere wherein the acolytes may be confident in their roles and upright in their involvement in the solemnity of the service. At the same time they are relaxed in the knowledge of the moral support, gratitude and appreciation they receive from both priest and congregation.

Crucifer: The Crucifer is seen as the “head” of the acolyting team and is asked to take responsibility for helping to guide the others before and during the service. The Crucifer carries the Cross in and out, sits in the sanctuary, and assists with Communion. 

Torchbearer: Torchbearers carry the torches, representing the light of Christ, into the church. They  process and recess together following the cross and sit in the nave, flanking the baptismal font.

Gospel Carrier: On some occasions an acolyte will carry the Gospel Book, the word of Christ, into the church.