Acolyte Program

2009 - 2010 Acolyte Team

We have a strong acolyte program at Grace Episcopal. In a congregation of approximately 550, we have anywhere between 28-32 acolytes in a given year. The work of the acolytes extends beyond the sanctuary and into the worlds of fellowship, friendship and mission outreach programs.

A major part of the success of the program is due to its approach as a “team” ministry. Not only do the acolytes work together as a team, but the adults who work with them also share their ministries. We have an Acolyte Director/Trainer, two Trainers (one priest and one layperson), a Scheduler, a Keeper of the Robes, and an Outreach/Mission Committee.
We feel our first goal is to teach our acolytes to know and love the liturgy of the Episcopal Church. They learn it by doing it. Secondly, we try to teach them to love themselves — to love the person God made them to be. Thirdly, we try to teach them responsibility and service with dignity.

Last but not least — we encourage them to have FUN! Several times throughout the year we have parties, candy contests, birthday celebrations and outreach projects. We serve well together and we also play well together.

If you are interested in becoming an acolyte, please contact Julie Jaeger at jetjaeger1@hotmail.com.

The Acolyte Prayer

I bid you pray for all our Acolytes: Lord Jesus Christ. We ask your blessing upon these young people and we thank them for their many hours of service at your altar. As they light the candles in your holy house, give them humbleness of heart. When they carry your Gospel News, stir them to be like you. While they hold your precious vessels, instill in them the assurance of your sacrifice and love. Ans as they carry your cross with dignity, let them also carry it with joy — being resurrection people — ready to walk into the world to share the good tidings you have to proclaim to all people. We thank them, Father. Hold them and bless them always. Amen. — by Julie Jaeger; May 14, 1994