I Serve at God's Altar encompasses all the necessary tools needed to educate, empower, and train acolytes. Everything you need is here: church history, liturgical theology, guided retreats and workshops, visual graphics, an in-depth liturgical glossary, and much more. This book takes seriously the role and privilege of serving at God's altar, without forgetting that our service is meant to be a joyous and life-giving spiritual practice. Roger and Sharon never lose sight that all the teaching, training, and ritual is intended to praise, worship, and glorify God.
--The Rev. Carlos de la Torre, Southwest Region Missionary, Episcopal Church in Connecticut
This book is overdue. We have had manuals and customaries over the years that tell an acolyte how to do their ministry. This book not only does that with current relevant language but also explains the why.
--Claude Duke DuTeil, training advisor for the Vergers Guild of the Episcopal Church and retired Head Verger, Washington National Cathedral
I Serve at God's Altar is a clear and informative guide for those who work with acolytes, helping them prepare for and be present in the service. This is a great gift for acolytes and anyone working with young people who are serving at God's altar.
--Duana Cisney, acolyte mentor and author of Cross Words: A Devotional for Youth
Equal parts inspiration and information, this book is an essential foundational resource for anyone who seeks to encourage the ministry of the acolyte. For acolytes--youth and adult--who wish to grow in their ministry, this book will help all to embody their fullest potential.
--Lisa Brown, Director of Digital Ministry for Membership Vision
Introduction
Chapter 1: A New Order
Chapter 2: Why We Serve
Chapter 3: How We Worship
Chapter 4: An Instructed Eucharist in Word and Image
Chapter 5: Artifacts and Memorials
Chapter 6: Movements and Standards
Chapter 7: Building an Order
Chapter 8: An Acolyte's Way of Life
Appendix: Making This Work
* The Ministry of the Acolyte
* Crafting Your Way of Life
* Crafting Your Program Mission Statement
* Mapping Out Your Choreography
* Administrative Helps
* A Sample Acolyte Retreat
* A Guided Eucharist
* A Visual Tour Guide for Acolytes
* The Choreography of Processions
* Church Manners for Acolytes
* Your Preworship Checklist
* Movements and Standards
* Censing and Bell Ringing
* The Holy Eucharist (Poster)
* Debriefing Your Service
* Commissioning Service
* An Order of Worship Game
* Acolyte Prayers