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Holy Week Customary (2018)

Liturgical Customary

[Holy Week 2018]

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

15 Roy Street

Seattle, Washington 98109

Last Revised: 03/08/18

SPECIAL SERVICES

Palm Sunday

The 9:00 and 11:15am Palm Sunday liturgies are rehearsed by all servers at 10:00am the day before, on Saturday, and then talked through/walked again on Sunday at 8:15 and 10:30am, respectively. The most experienced sacristans should be assigned to 11:15 on Palm Sunday. At least one greeter is needed in the Narthex throughout the Palm Sunday Procession to assist those unable to participate in the Procession. Two sacristans are needed either outside in the Garden or down in the Undercroft to break things down after the Procession has begun. Two greeters – who have been well-briefed ahead of time – are needed in the labyrinth at 11:15, in addition to the greeter(s) in the Narthex. (The same is true at 5:00pm). An aspergelium and bowl of holy water is needed at the 7:30 and 11:15 Masses, and should be in place before the Liturgy of the Palms begins. At the all morning masses, we continue using the wooden candlesticks as in Lent, as well as the Coptic processional cross (with palms attached). Make sure the gospel lesson for the Liturgy of the Palms comes from the new revised lectionary, not the altar book (which uses the older RSV translation of the Bible).

7:30 Mass

The palms are prepared as described in the Sacristans Manual. Enough palm branches for both 7:30 and 9:00 services are laid on the Altar in a large, flat woven basket. All servers enter from the door behind the pulpit: Acolyte, EM, Deacon/Assisting Priest, Celebrant. [Note in 2018: according to current practice, only one lay server is scheduled for 7:30am services] After all reverence the Altar and Assembly with a profound bow, the Acolyte goes to her/his normal “Prayers of the People” place at the side of the altar platform; the Deacon/Assisting Priest leads the Celebrant and the EM up behind the Altar. The Liturgy of the Palms is led from behind the Altar. In the absence of a Deacon, the EM reads the gospel. The palms are blessed and sprinkled with holy water before being distributed to the people (the bowl of holy water and aspergelium should be fetched by the EM as s/he comes up behind the Altar). The EM and Acolyte [2018: EM and Celebrant or Assisting Priest in absence of Acolyte] carry the blessed palms out to the people. The Passion is read by the whole assembly with the Deacon taking the part of the Narrator (or the EM in the absence of a Deacon), the Celebrant taking the part of Jesus, and others in the Assembly taking the individual speaking parts. All speak from their places except the Narrator (Deacon/EM) who uses the pulpit. Make sure the Narrator announces the Passion properly according to BCP Proper Liturgies for Special Days – “The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to ____________” rather than as a Sunday eucharistic gospel reading with responses before and after. In 2015: at 7:30, 9:00, and 11:15am, the Narrator (Deacon) led the Passion from one of our “nice” loose-leaf binders, which was placed on the Altar before the service; taking the binder to the pulpit with him/her at the appropriate time.

9:00 Mass

This mass begins with the Liturgy of the Palms in the narthex, with all of the Assembly, servers, and choir gathering there. Pre-blessed palms from 7:30 are used at 9:00, distributed by greeters to the people along with their worship aids – be abundant, give each person 3 palms or so (the portion of the Liturgy of the Palms that involves the blessing of the palms is NOT used at this mass). After the Liturgy of the Palms, there is a procession into the nave during the hymn; order: incense, cross and torches, assembly – with EM2 and MC directing traffic at the doors to the nave – EM2 and MC, then EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Priest Presider. The Passion is read as at 11:15.

11:15 Mass

At 11:15, the Liturgy of the Palms takes place either outside in the Centennial Garden (weather permitting) or in the Undercroft. Our priority is to go around the block in nearly any kind of weather – whether the procession begins in the Garden or the Undercroft. The decision about whether or not to go around the block should be made early enough – around 10:30 – to avoid last minute trauma! In either case, a table is set up with Processional Torches, two large, flat woven baskets full of palms, and a bowl of holy water. The Liturgy of the Palms is sung (except for the reading of the Gospel); the palms are blessed, sprinkled with holy water and censed before being distributed to the assembly. (A small amount of incense should be laid on at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Palms, much more just before the Procession begins – use 4 charcoals for this procession!) MC and EM2 distribute the palms while the choir sings an anthem. In the absence of a Deacon, the Gospel within the Liturgy of the Palms is read by the EM1 – but announced and concluded as a Daily Office reading. The Assisting Priest or Deacon bids the procession.

Some blessed palms from the 7:30 and 9:00am Masses need to be available in the Narthex at 11:15 for those who are unable to join the procession and a greeter should be in the narthex for the entirety of the Procession.

If the weather allows and the Palm Sunday procession begins in the Garden, then the procession moves out on to the sidewalk on Roy Street and turns left, then proceeds all the way around the block (Roy Street, Queen Anne Avenue, Mercer Street, 1st Avenue N, Roy Street again) and ends up at the doors of the church at 15 Roy. The MC cues the beginning of the Procession from the Garden. Order of Procession: Thurifer, Cross and Torches three abreast wherever possible; EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, Celebrant three abreast wherever possible; and the assembly. The EM2 should position her/himself farther back in the Procession to help direct traffic and keep the procession from getting too strung out. Likewise, the choir should mix itself in groups amongst the Assembly to support the singing of the Processional Hymn. The MC remains at the doors of the Church throughout the entire procession around the block. A collect [BCP, 272] is chanted outside the doors of the Church following the Procession around the block.

As the Procession enters the Church, Thurifer, Crucifer, and Acolytes lead straight in (no figure-8 inside the Church). They should start moving during the organ introduction to the hymn (in recent years, “Ride on, ride on, in majesty”) – the MC will signal to the Thurifer when s/he should begin to enter the Nave. The organist waits until a considerable percentage of the assembly has found their seats before starting the hymn itself. Thurifer, Crucifer, and Acolytes proceed up the main aisle of the Nave as usual, enter the Chancel, put away the Thurible and Processional Cross (the Coptic cross in its usual location) and place the Processional Torches upon the Altar; these four servers assume their usual places at the sides of the bottom step of the Altar. Meanwhile, the MC and EM2 should place themselves near the doors between Narthex and Nave and encourage the people to proceed in, following Thurifer, Crucifer, and Acolytes. The choir proceeds straight to the choir loft and does not join the Procession into the Nave. The EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant remain in the Narthex until all of the assembly is in the Nave. MC and EM2 followed by EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant proceed up the main aisle last, concluding the Procession. It is visually striking if servers and members of the assembly allow some palms to drop to the floor in the main aisle and remain there throughout the remainder of the Mass. Remaining altar servers (MC, EM2, EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, Celebrant) go to their usual places around the bottom step of the altar; all servers reverence the Altar and the Assembly with a profound bow, remain in place around the altar platform facing the assembly to conclude the Processional Hymn through the end of the Collect of the Day. All then go to benches and sit for the Liturgy of the Word. The Thurifer should take the incense out of the Chancel immediately after the procession; there should be plenty of time to get back to her/his normal place on the credence table side before the EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant arrive in the Chancel.

If the Procession begins in the undercroft, ALL servers and choir and assembly move up to the sidewalk by way of the ramp on the west side. Order: Thurifer; Cross and Torches; EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant; EM2 and MC, choir and assembly (mixed as described above). Depending on weather, the procession either turns left and goes around the block, or right and into the Church. The Collect may be chanted at the inside doors to the nave, if it is raining hard. The procession enters the nave as described above. No figure 8 inside the Church! Our priority is to go around the block in nearly any kind of weather – whether the procession begins in the Garden or the Undercroft.

Incense is not needed again in this service until the offertory (because there is no Gospel Procession). The Thurifer should leave the Chancel to light new charcoal as the Preacher returns to her/his seat – BEFORE the silence and stillness that follows the sermon.

The Passion is read in dramatic fashion as at 7:30 and 9:00, but with trained people taking specific parts according to prior arrangements. The Narrator (Deacon or EM1) stands alone after the silence and stillness following the second reading, goes to the pulpit and begins the reading of the passion. Other people (in the chancel or nave) reading specific parts of the passion stand at their first spoken line(s) and remain standing; the remainder of the assembly stands when indicated in the passion booklet.

Maundy Thursday

3 additional servers are assigned in the ROTA for this liturgy to assist in the hallway between the Church and the Sacristy/Office area with the transportation of articles at the footwashing and at the stripping of the Altar (towels, clean and dirty water; vestments, the Sanctus Bell, etc.). [2018: The preceding has not happened for several years – these additional servers need to be recruited.] One of these servers should be dedicated to the footwashing station in the narthex, with its own bucket and bowl and supply of clean warm water. The Crucifer also helps off-stage with the stripping of the altar, since many of the articles from the chancel are carried to the small meeting room in the office area. [2018: Which room do we use this year and going forward for articles removed on Maundy Thursday?] ALL servers gather to rehearse this liturgy at 5:00 pm on Maundy Thursday. Servers have access to the Church from 5-6:00pm; then the choir needs the space beginning at 6:00 for their rehearsal.

Of all the Holy Week services, Maundy Thursday provides the best opportunity to incorporate all our worshipping “sub” communities – after all, it’s the one service in the year where we use all three of our worship spaces (parish hall/5pm worship space, church, and chapel). Hence, the 5pm Sunday altar and ambo are set up in their normal places in the parish hall. The reading from John 17 is done from the ambo; the gifts of bread and wine for the Maundy Thursday mass (twice as much bread and wine for Good Friday communion as well) are set out on the 5pm altar BEFORE the Agape Meal. The altar is in the middle of the room, with tables for the Agape Meal set up around – with the altar as hub, the tables as spokes on a wheel. A formal procession up from the parish hall to the church – by way of the ramp on the west side – takes place at the conclusion of the Agape Meal.

At least one 5pm server is assigned to participate in each of the Triduum services, including Maundy Thursday. [2018: One is scheduled for Maundy Thursday and one for Easter Vigil/First Mass, but not for Good Friday.] Children of the parish (attending both 5pm and morning services) may bless the space for the Agape meal and then assist with the procession upstairs for the mass. Children will also be given a role at each of the footwashing stations (helping with towels). The procession exits the parish hall as a 5pm Taizé song is being sung (2018: “Stay with me…”). [2017: 5pm Lenten artist-in-residence materials remain in the parish hall.] The Gary James Eucharistic prayer from 5pm Sunday mass is used for the Maundy Thursday service (make sure worship aid reflects this! and that the EM1 is aware and has looked at this Eucharistic Prayer ahead of time with Presider to plan whether or not to point.

The Agape Meal takes place in the Undercroft at 6:30 pm. Children may bless the space for the meal a few minutes before 6:30. By 7:00, all those serving at the Altar this evening leave the Undercroft briefly and go upstairs to vest and prepare for the beginning of the liturgy. They need to return for the procession from the parish hall. This should happen BEFORE the reading of John 17. 2018: Triduum booklets need to be distributed to worshippers DOWNSTAIRS toward the end of the meal to avoid congestion upstairs at the conclusion of the procession.

Enough bread and wine must be consecrated at this service for Communion to be served from the Reserved Sacrament on Good Friday.

Before the liturgy begins, the MC removes the vessels holding the Reserved Sacrament in the church’s Aumbry, to the credence table or the Sacristy. (The lantern by the Aumbry in the church will be extinguished and removed after the sacrament reserved for Friday’s communion has been moved to the altar of repose in the chapel.) The Reserved Sacrament from the Aumbry in the Chapel should be removed to the Sacristy, along with the lantern candle (still lit) before the service begins. The two plastic candle pads should also be removed from the Altar to the sacristy before the service begins. The base for the Processional Cross should be placed in the small meeting room (rector’s former office), and the MC should ensure that that room is open at the beginning of the service. [2018: Which room will be used for this purpose?] The wooden chairs purchased for the 5pm Sunday liturgy and stored downstairs are used at the four footwashing stations (two chairs at each station).

Also before the liturgy begins: tapers need to be available for the servers who will light the way up the office hallway to the Chapel after the stripping, washing, and anointing of the Altar; only enough BCPs and Hymnals should be on the benches in the Chancel to meet actual needs – any extras should be removed (again, this will make the stripping of the Altar portion of the liturgy less cluttered).

For this liturgy, no votive candles will be provided at the Mary shrine with its bowl of sand – the brightness of those candles distracts from the stripping of the Altar –it is better not to provide candles at all, instead of extinguishing candles lit by worshippers.

The liturgy begins with a procession up from the parish hall to the Church – using the ramp on the west side of the parish hall. All are singing the Taizé song “Stay with me…” during the procession, until folk enter the Roy Street doors to the church, then the singing stops. Order: Thurifer, Cross and Torches; then EM2 to help direct traffic; choir and people, followed by MC also directing traffic; lastly, Preacher/Rector not in any other liturgical role, EM1, Assisting Priest, and Presider. Thurifer, Acolytes, and Crucifer proceed immediately into the Nave and then Chancel without waiting. EM2 remains at the left hand door into Nave and encourages people to enter following cross and torches. Choir members go directly to choir loft. When the MC arrives in the Narthex, s/he takes her/his place at the right hand door to Nave. Preacher/Rector, EM1, Assisting Priest, and Presider wait in front of the font upon entering the Narthex. After all the people have entered the Nave, the MC signals the organist (who has been playing an organ voluntary) with the button/light that remaining members of the altar party are in place. At the beginning of the singing of the first verse of the Opening Hymn, MC and EM2, followed by Preacher/Rector, EM1, Assisting Priest, and Presider proceed into Nave and then Chancel.

Incense is used throughout this liturgy. The Crucifer takes the Processional Cross all the way to the meeting room (the base should already have been placed there before the service begins). [2018: Which room?] The Celebrant needs to be aware that it will take the Crucifer some time to return to the Chancel from putting the cross away – and should be sure the Crucifer has returned before signaling the profound bow. Altar servers go to their usual places around the bottom step of the Altar; they reverence the Altar with a profound bow at the musical interlude, turn and bow to the people, and remain in place facing the people to finish the hymn, as well as for the Opening Acclamation, Trisagion, and Collect for Maundy Thursday. After the collect, all go to their seats for the Liturgy of the Word.

The Footwashing

Include in worship aid the expanded rubric: “all are invited to wash one another’s feet and have their feet washed, in response to Jesus’ command….” Make sure there is intentionality at each station to allow time for everyone to wash and be washed before breaking down the stations. We’re not done until the anchor person at each station says we’re done.

Following the sermon and silence and stillness, the Celebrant stands, all other Servers and the Assembly follow suit. Stepping forward from the bench a pace or two, the Celebrant introduces the ceremony of foot-washing with the words from BOS, 93. After the invitation, the Celebrant returns to the bench and the EM1, Celebrant, and Deacon/Assisting Priest divest themselves down to albs, and remove their shoes and socks. All other servers who are going to have their feet washed do the same. 4 footwashing stations are set up and the footwashing begins (two chairs and one kneeling cushion per station – three stations at the front of the nave, one the narthex between the doors and the font. Each station has a vested “anchor” person and a vested assistant (except the station in the narthex) as follows: 1) front of nave middle: Celebrant (anchor) and Acolyte (assistant); 2) front of nave east (pulpit side): EM2 and Crucifer; 3) front of nave west (Mary shrine): EM1 and Acolyte; 4) narthex: Deacon/Assisting Priest and 2 non-vested servers. The MC and Thurifer “rove” between stations removing bowls of dirty water, bringing them back clean, empty pitchers of water and bringing them back full). Preacher/Rector not in any other liturgical role may assist. Ushers (and/or non-vested servers) need to be instructed to help distribute the people evenly among the 4 footwashing stations. Servers go immediately to the various footwashing stations to wash/have their feet washed first, modeling the actions for the assembly. Order of footwashing: anchor washes vested server’s feet first, then any other vested server is washed and washes; then the people are washed and wash; vested server washes anchor’s feet last. Liquid hand sanitizer should be on the Credence Table for use by the Celebrant and others after the footwashing.

The EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant return to the Chancel after the footwashing, put their shoes and socks back on, and re-vest – assisted by the MC and Thurifer. All wash hands with hand sanitizer. Then, the EM1, Assisting Priest, and Celebrant go out in front of the Altar. The Prayers of the People (Form I!) and the Prayer of Confession are done from in front of the Altar. Servers come out from the benches to their normal places for the Prayers of the People and Confession of Sin. The Peace follows.

The Eucharist

Additional bread and wine are consecrated at this liturgy for use on Good Friday (two decanters, two plates of bread and hosts, and a small, dedicated bowl for gluten free hosts). Ablutions are done in the sacristy after the mass, which means removing as unremarkably as possible broken bread and poured wine NOT TO BE RESERVED FOR FRIDAY to the sacristy before the Postcommunion Prayer. As soon as the Assembly has been communicated, bread plates, chalices, and one flagon can be removed to the sacristy; being sure to leave the elements for Friday communion on the altar and a cruet of wine and water on the credence table for the washing of the altar later. Several servers, led by the MC, will reverently consume those elements in the sacristy, with the door closed, after the service.

The Blessed Sacrament is Carried to the Altar of Repose

As the remaining elements from Thursday’s communion are being removed to the sacristy, the Deacon/Assisting Priest or MC move the elements to be reserved at the Altar of Repose (and used for Good Friday communion) from the back of the Altar to the front, for easier removal later.

After the Postcommunion Prayer (led from behind the Altar):

The Stripping of the Altar

After the gifts of bread and wine to be reserved for Good Friday have been removed to the Chapel, the Thurifer and EM1 remain in the Chapel. The Deacon/Assisting Priest and Acolytes return to the Church.

In all that follows, the servers who carry articles away from the Altar, Credence Table, etc., will all take a counterclockwise circular path following one another so as not to get in each others’ way. They will approach farther away from the Altar wall, receive articles from the MC and then move toward the door behind the Pulpit closer to the Altar wall. Additional non-vested servers/sacristans assigned for this service will be waiting in the hallway between Church and Chapel to receive items from Crucifer, EM2, Acolytes 1 and 2 – the vested servers should not leave the Church and the non-vested servers need not enter the Church – all transfers happen at the door. The one exception to this is the Crucifer, who, after taking a first article/set of articles out of the Chancel, remains in the hallway and assists the three non-vested servers in receiving articles at the door behind the pulpit.

At the beginning of this service, the Crucifer should take the Processional Cross all the way to the Sacristy (and its base should already be there at the beginning of the service). This will save work and confusion later.

When they are present in the Chancel, all servers remain standing for the entire Pange Lingua and Psalm 22 (the Assembly may be kneeling at this time!). The cue for the cantor to begin the chanting of Psalm 22 is the removal of the chasuble from the Celebrant.

After the Deacon/Assisting Priest and Acolytes have returned to the Chancel from the Chapel and after the chanting of Psalm 22 begins, the Stripping of the Altar begins.

A. Behind or at the Altar

1. Vestments

MC assists the Celebrant in removing the chasuble and stole; hands the vestments to Crucifer, Acolytes, and EM2, who are standing at the bottom step of the altar on the pulpit side; Crucifer carries the Celebrant’s vestments to the door behind the pulpit where additional servers/sacristans are waiting to receive them. When the Crucifer brings her/his first set of articles to the door behind the pulpit, she/he now becomes an off-stage server, helping to receive articles at the door and taking them to their appropriate places: sacristy or meeting room. MC assists the Deacon/Assisting Priest in removing the stole; hands the vestments to an Acolyte, who carries them to the door and the waiting servers/sacristans. The Altar Book, pillow, and any other materials on the stools behind the Altar are handed to the other Acolyte. (At this point, the MC is on the Pulpit side of the Altar.)

2. Altar Furnishings

MC assists Deacon/Assisting Priest and Celebrant in removing all furnishings from altar; Deacon/Assisting Priest hands articles and furnishings to MC who descends the Altar steps and hands them on to EM2 and Acolytes who are standing at the bottom step of the Altar on the Pulpit side. Furnishings are carried to the door and waiting additional servers/sacristans. Order of removal of furnishings: fair linen; cere cloth. The Deacon/Assisting Priest and Celebrant never leave the top level of the Altar platform; Acolytes and EM2 never climb the Altar steps; it’s the MC who ascends and descends the steps.

B. Credence Table

Deacon/Assisting Priest and Celebrant remain behind the now stripped altar. MC removes articles from the Credence table and hands them to the other servers who are lined up: Acolytes and EM2 (Acolytes facing the credence table closest to the wall, EM2 farthest to the right away from the wall). Acolytes and EM2 carry articles to the door on the pulpit side and hand them to waiting additional servers/sacristans.

Order of removal of articles: 1. Any left-over items from Thursday communion and reserved sacrament: chalices, bread plates/bowls, purificators, corporal, empty ciborium [NOTE: a pitcher of wine and of water need to remain on the credence table for the washing of the altar later; also sponge and towels must be on the credence for the washing/anointing, and a little vessel of chrism for the anointing of the Altar]; 2. lavabo bowl with towel; 3. candle from Sanctuary Lantern, which has been extinguished after the sacrament for Friday has been removed from the church; 4. offering plates and gospel book; [candle snuffers – should have been removed before the liturgy begins]; 5 any incense related items (like the tile underlayment).

C. Benches on credence side

MC hands articles to Acolytes and EM2, who carry them to the door on the pulpit side and waiting servers/sacristans. Order: Sanctus Bell; striker; hymnals and BCPs from benches, with service bulletins.

D. Communion Rail

MC hands cushions to Acolytes and EM2, who remove them to the door and waiting servers/sacristans – moving from right to left first on credence side, then on pulpit side. Acolytes and EM2 continue to follow a counterclockwise circular path in all these movements!

E. Pulpit

MC hands Acolytes and EM2 all articles from pulpit: sermon, BCP, bulletin, lectionary book.

F. Benches on pulpit side

MC hands articles to Acolytes and EM2 who carry them to the door on the pulpit side and waiting servers/sacristans: hymnals and BCPs from benches, with service bulletins. After the articles from the benches on the Pulpit side are removed, the Acolytes remain in the hallway and office area and line it with lighted tapers to help light the way for the Assembly as they proceed to the Chapel.

G. Hallway from Church to Chapel

Additional servers/sacristans should remove candle snuffers and small Processional Cross from the hallway before the Assembly proceeds to the Chapel.

H. Washing and Anointing of Altar

Assisted by the MC (bringing wine and sponge, water and towels, and chrism from the Credence Table all on a tray) and EM2 (receiving vessels, towels, etc. after they’re used on the Pulpit side of the Altar, also with a tray), the Deacon/Assisting Priest [2018: Rector] washes the Altar and the Celebrant anoints it. The MC and EM2 will join the Deacon up behind the Altar on either side with their trays. The Celebrant stands back and to the side of the Altar as the Deacon/Assisting Priest [Rector] washes the Altar and avoids looking like s/he is “hovering.” The Altar should be anointed in the middle of back (and the four corners), but not at the front middle, since that is where the corporal will be spread for the Good Friday Communion. Upon completion of this action, the EM2 remains in the hallway and takes up her/his lighted taper. MC moves out to the gap in the Communion Rail, the Deacon/Assisting Priest and Celebrant come down from behind the Altar, pause for a moment in front of the Altar, but DO NOT REVERENCE, and then move out the door behind the Pulpit and proceed to the Chapel. [2018: With Rector washing and anointing the Altar, is there any reason why the Assisting Priest shouldn’t just stay in the Chapel – the Presider and Rector will remain out in the Chancel at the Altar?]

The MC remains in Church, moves out in front of the Communion Rail, and opens the door for the Assembly to process to the Chapel of Repose. The Acolytes, EM2, and Crucifer need to get lit tapers to light the way for the assembly from the hallway up to the office and into the Chapel. Celebrant and Deacon/Assisting Priest go to Chapel; Thurifer hands Celebrant the Thurible and she/he censes the Reserved Sacrament.

NOTE for sacristans: the door to the aumbry in the church (and chapel) are to be left open with the aumbry empty from Maundy Thursday through the communion at the First Mass of Easter. Only then is new reserved sacrament added, the door closed, and a lit sanctuary lantern brought back in to those worship spaces.

Good Friday

All servers rehearse this liturgy at 5:30 pm on Good Friday. NOTE: the choir and women’s/men’s chorus rehearses in the Church first on Good Friday; servers do not have access to the space until 6:00pm – servers gather first in the office area to talk through the service. A full complement of servers is assigned for this liturgy, even though no incense is used and no torches or cross are carried in the opening Procession. All ministers enter from the door behind the pulpit in the following order: Thurifer, Acolyte 1, MC; Crucifer, Acolyte 2, EM2; EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, Celebrant. In threes, all take their usual “confession of sin” places in front of the Altar and at the steps at the side of the Altar. After pausing for a moment to ensure that all are in their positions, BUT WITHOUT REVERENCING the Altar or the Assembly, all servers kneel for the silent prayer rubricated in the *BCP* (p. 276). The Celebrant stands, gives the Opening Acclamation and the Collect of the Day. All other ministers and servers then stand and go to their seats at the benches for the Liturgy of the Word.

The Crucifer, or another server seated on the pulpit side, needs to go to the sacristy and turn off the pulpit microphone after the second reading and before the singing of the Passion; upon conclusion of the Passion, as the choristers are leaving the chancel, this same person must immediately go back to the sacristy and turn the microphone on before the sermon begins. “Narrator” for the Passion should be instructed NOT to touch the microphone or move it out of the way – it will be turned off!

After the silence and stillness following the sermon, all ministers and servers move to their positions in front of and by the side of the Altar (usual places for Prayers of the People) for the Solemn Collects. The Solemn Collects begin with all ministers and servers standing and facing the Assembly. After the “introduction” to the prayers (“Dear people of God…according to their needs”), the Deacon/Assisting Priest/Celebrant bids all to kneel, then the rest of the prayers are done kneeling (worship aid should reflect this). Kneeling, the Deacon/Assisting Priest, EM1, and Celebrant alternate chanting portions of the prayers: the Deacon/Assisting Priest begins and concludes each section; the EM1 chants the indented portions; the Celebrant chants the collect. Deacon/Assisting Priest and EM1 use the tone printed on pp. 332-337 of the Altar Book; Celebrant monotones the collects (instead of Tone I).

After the Solemn Collects, the Deacon/Assisting Priest leads the Celebrant and EM1 back to the front bench on the Credence Table side. The Deacon, MC, EM2 or Thurifer or Crucifer go to the narthex to bring in the large wooden cross for veneration; two carry the cross, the Deacon (or other server) chants the versicle “Behold the wood of the cross,…” three times, stopping three times to do so. The base has been placed on the floor of the Nave, not up the step in the Chancel, before the beginning of the service, along with the cloth that will drape it, and a kneeling cushion. The Crucifer assists the MC and EM2 or Thurifer in placing the large wooden cross into its base; shims are added, the base is covered with the drapery, and a kneeling cushion is put in place.

The Assembly is given the opportunity to venerate the cross – beginning with those serving at the Altar, then the people. 2018: Order: Presider and Preacher; EM2 and Thurifer; MC and Crucifer; choir and people; Torches, EM1, Assisting Priest. The MC and Crucifer remain near the cross to help people stand up after their veneration (be close but not obtrusive!). The two acolytes no longer go to the side aisles to direct traffic. The people return to their seats by the aisle in front of the Communion Rail and side aisles – they do not enter the Chancel. An usher will encourage people to come forward into the aisle to venerate, instead of waiting and coming up one by one. The same usher will temporarily halt the Assembly’s veneration, after the Reproaches are concluded, and direct choir members to come forward to the cross of veneration – the choir sang the Reproaches from the back of the Nave. When the choir has finished venerating, they return to the rear of the Nave to lead the Veneration Hymn (“Crux Fidelis”). The remainder of the Assembly now venerate. Last of all, Torches, EM1, and Assisting Priest venerate.

As soon as the Torches, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and EM1 have completed their veneration, they should proceed to the Chapel (leaving through the door behind the pulpit in the Chancel). All servers remaining in the Chancel move to their seats at the benches either after venerating or after assisting the people in their veneration, except the Crucifer, who leaves the Nave through the door by the St. Paul statue, and stands in the hallway where s/he can see the Celebrant through the door behind the Pulpit. After all have venerated the cross, and during the singing of the veneration hymn, the Celebrant, who has been seated at the front bench on the Credence Table side, goes to the Credence Table, picks up a corporal, goes to the Altar (from the front!), and lays the corporal there. The Celebrant then steps over to the right hand front corner of the Altar and stands there waiting for the Reserved Sacrament to be brought back in. Meanwhile, in the Sacristy, the EM1 and Deacon/Assisting Priest have picked up the plate of consecrated bread/hosts (with small, dedicated bowl of gluten free hosts) and flagon of consecrated wine, the Acolytes have lit the Processional Torches. When cued by the Crucifer in the hallway, the four proceed back into the Chancel with the Sacrament. Order: Acolytes (with torches), Deacon/Assisting Priest (with bread/hosts), EM1 (with wine). The Crucifer should cue those in the hallway as soon as the Celebrant has reached the Altar with the corporal.

Acolytes take places in front of Altar, facing Altar, lined up with sides of Altar; EM1 and Deacon/Assisting Priest between them. Acolytes place torches on the Altar and move to their normal positions at the side of the altar (moving straight up the front of the Altar and straight down the sides). The Deacon/Assisting Priest and EM1 climb the Altar steps and place bread and wine on the corporal at the front middle of the Altar, and with the Celebrant turn, descend the steps, and stand in front of the Altar in their normal positions. All other ministers, MC, Thurifer, EM2, Crucifer, who have been either at the benches or in front of the Credence Table, now take their normal places for a Confession of Sin (EM1, Celebrant, and Deacon/Assisting Priest in front of Altar; Crucifer, Acolyte, EM2 on the pulpit side steps; Thurifer, Acolyte, and MC on the Credence Table side). The Deacon [or Celebrant] bids the Confession of Sin and all kneel (as able). After absolution is pronounced, all stand, but remain facing the Altar. All say together the Lord’s Prayer, introduced and led by the Celebrant.

The EM1, Celebrant, and Deacon/Assisting Priest walk up the front steps of the Altar to prepare to serve Communion; the EM2 joins them. Chalices and extra plate for bread are brought up from the Credence Table by MC and Thurifer. Communion is served to all.

Ablutions must be done during this service – all remaining sacrament is to be reverently consumed.

After ablutions have been completed, the two Acolytes need to remove the candle snuffers from their hooks above the Credence Table and bring them with them when they move to the Altar for the Postcommunion Prayer (they will need them immediately after the prayer to put out the candles on the Altar). All 9 ministers resume their places in threes in front of the Altar (EM1, Celebrant, Deacon/Assisting Priest) and beside (Crucifer, Acolyte, and EM2 on the Pulpit side; Thurifer, Acolyte, and MC on the Credence Table side). The Postcommunion Prayer is said facing the Altar. When finished, the Processional Torches are extinguished by the Acolytes (moving straight up the sides and back down the same way to the same places). All depart in silence through the door behind the Pulpit, WITHOUT REVERENCING. Order: EM1, Celebrant, Deacon/Assisting Priest; then, EM2, Acolyte, and Crucifer; finally, MC, Acolyte, and Thurifer – but, MC, Acolyte, and Thurifer should turn and begin moving toward the door as soon as the EM1, Deacon/Assisting Priest, and Celebrant move.

Holy Saturday

The Holy Saturday Liturgy of the Word is celebrated in the Church at 9 am. The presider and server enter from the door behind the pulpit, pause in front of the Altar but WITHOUT REVERENCING, then kneel for silent prayer – the worship aid needs to indicate this for the people as well. The presider then stands and says the collect for Holy Saturday. The server, who is also the lector for the service, stands and goes to the pulpit. The presider goes to the bench on the credence table side. Since 2012, we decided to use the reading from John 19 as the gospel lesson. Server/lector reads the lesson from the gospel. The Presider offers a brief reflection from the pulpit. All servers at the Great Vigil of Easter are encouraged to attend, then help with re-setting of the Church at 9:30am. The rehearsal for the Great Vigil begins at 10:00am.

Great Vigil of Easter and First Mass of Easter** [Draft!!!! Additional and different detail needs to be added about the Vigil.]

The Easter Vigil set-up:

Paschal Candle prepared for new fire Lighting

Albs cleaned and pressed

Gospel Book on Altar

Tapers on chairs for servers

Small table and fire bowl prepared on Foyer for New Light

Greeter trained and prepared for fire emergency

Candles pre-lit to make sure ready for service

Mini flashlights for ushers

MC check to make sure all are present

Servers:

Vested by 4:25am

Assemble for instructions and prayer in office at 4:40pm

Assemble in Foyer at 4:50am

Thurible is pre-lit in sacristy

From 2012: All assemble in Undercroft at 4:50am. At 4:58am, servers and ministers go up into entry way should be in their assigned position (Note diagram). Acolytes 1 & 2, Crucifer, Exsultet cantor, Lay Reader 1&2, EM2 and MC have altar candles for procession.

All servers REVERENCE the Altar both at the beginning and end of this service. This is the first reverencing since the beginning of the Maundy Thursday service.

Deacon has Paschal Candle in hand. EM1 has Altar book and will hold for Celebrant. MC gives sign to begin.

*In the darkness, fire is kindled; after which the celebrant addresses the people with opening words. (Said)*

*Dear friends in Christ……….*

*Let us pray. (Sung)*

*O God, Through your Son………*

Incense is laid on. The new fire is censed. The Paschal Candle is then blessed:

*(Tracing the cross) Christ yesterday and today, the Beginning and the End………*

When lighting and prayers complete, follower should be put on the Paschal Candle. MC and EM1 then light server candles with tapers remembering to light their own candles.

Deacon moves to the front of the procession and waits for sign to begin. Thurifer, Acolytes 1 & 2, Crucifer, Exsultet cantor, Lay Reader 1&2, EM2 and MC form up procession with EM1 and Celebrant following.

[In the absence of a Deacon, the Celebrant will carry the Paschal Candle into the Church at the beginning of the vigil, while the Assisting Priest will carry it to the font for the baptisms!!]

Deacon bearing the Candle, leads the procession to chancel, pausing three times in pre-assigned positions singing:

*The light of Christ………*

Member of the congregation are lit by the servers during procession at pre-assigned locations.

Paschal candle is placed in its stand. Readers light pulpit candles. Deacon and readers return to form up with altar party. All reverence altar and go to their assigned places and remain standing.

Exsultet cantor goes to pulpit to chant Exsultet. At completion of chanting, Exsultet cantor leaves by side door.

Celebrant introduces the Scripture readings in these words

(Said) *Let us hear the record of God’s saving deeds…………*

All are seated.

Readers go to pulpit for assigned readings. All sit for the readings. Stand for the Collects. [Note from 2011: in our new lectionary book, the eighth reading at the Vigil, the dry bones from Ezekiel, is NOT printed with the other readings – it’s some 50 pages earlier on another Sunday. Before the Vigil, the readers, and/or the MC, need to make sure it is clearly marked with ribbons and/or post-its, where the dry bones reading is located AND how to get back to the final (9th) Vigil reading from the dry bones. Difficult in the dark to do all this on the spot! Binders with all lessons are in the “Triduum drawer” in the working sacristy!

*Readings*

At the conclusion of the readings, all form up and reverence the altar. Incense is laid on and Baptism proceeds as usual. Note from 2013: a family member of the one of the baptismal candidates in 2013 tripped and fell over the “lower” bowl of the new font – in 2013 Easter Sunday was about as early in March as it could be and it was still quite dark in the entry way at the baptisms. For 2014, one of the vested servers (probably the EM2), should stand next to that lower bowl of the font to make sure no one trips again.

2018: The Great Alleluia cantor needs to come forward and stand by the paschal candle to sing.

Notes for Baptism Customary

From August 23, 2016

In the week prior to a scheduled baptism, the MC for that service notifies the following servers that there is a baptism and invites them to join the presider for a pre-service walk-through:

MC

Thurifer

EM1

EM2

Deacon

At 9 am baptisms, the walk-through will begin at 8:20 or as soon thereafter as practical. At 11:15 baptisms, the walk-through will begin at 10:30.

At the walkthrough, the presider welcomes the family and godparents and introduces servers.

After the sermon and a moment of silence and stillness, the altar party moves into the Prayers of the People position, and the family/ies come forward. The families will have been instructed to stand in a “choir” position, facing each other rather than with their backs to the congregation.

At the words “let us now pray for this person who is to receive the sacrament of new birth,” the presider steps aside and the Thurifer leads the baptismal party to the fond. The deacon, MC and EM2 follow the baptismal party, inviting other family members in the front pews to join the procession. [Unless the deacon is carrying the paschal candle (?), in which case s/he follows the thurifer before the candidates and families. This could happen occasionally, right, when the paschal candle is up front – not just the Great Vigil? In other words, we would always process the candle to the font if it is not already there?] The presider hands his/her book to the EM1, who uses it to chant the Prayers for the Candidate in procession.

All gather around the font, with the family facing the altar and the presider on the west side of the font. The EM1 continues to hold the presider’s book. The Deacon (or MC) hands the ewer of water to the presider at the words “We thank you father, for the water of Baptism….” The EM2 assists in drying the newly baptized, using towels placed back by the font before the service.

Following the water bath, the MC lights the baptismal candle from the paschal candle and hands it to the presider, who in turn gives it to the family. (OR should the MC give the presider an unlit candle to light from the paschal candle?) [I think it should be the presider. The only challenge will be getting her/him to the paschal candle from her/his spot to the west of the font. But that’s do-able with a little fore thought.]

Aperges follows, and the altar party and baptismal party moves to the front. Family members may return to their pews; the newly baptized, parents, and godparents resume their position in the front of the church.

[At the Vigil, the chrismation and welcome of the newly baptized take place in the narthex BEFORE the Asperges and return to seats.] In full sight of the congregation, the presider anoints the newly baptized, “marked as Christ’s own forever,” and then says the prayer “Heavenly Father, we thank you…joy and wonder in all your works.” [Does this mean the chrism is placed on the credence table, rather than near the font, before the service? I don’t think we want to be carrying the chrism up front after the baptism. If it is to be on the credence table, we need to make sure the sacristan’s manual reflects that.]

The presider then says: “Let us welcome the newly baptized” and all pray: “We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.”

[*NOTE: the above prayer MUST be printed in the bulletin. It comes just before the Peace*.]

The exchange of peace follows, and the service continues as any other Sunday except that the newly baptized is censed during the offertory.

Second Mass of Easter

This service begins at 10:00 am, after the Great Vigil and the Break-Fast. Servers talk through/walk through at 9:15am. This service is usually well attended; many who attend are visitors and may be unfamiliar with the liturgical customs of the Episcopal Church (to say nothing of St. Paul’s). EMs should expect the challenges of large numbers of folk unfamiliar with communion at St. Paul’s. The Celebrant, at the brief announcements following the Peace, should be especially mindful to say a word of invitation and explanation about communion at St. Paul’s.

The service begins with a figure-8 from the front – see instructions elsewhere in this customary.

If there is a baptism at this liturgy, procedures outlined elsewhere in this customary are followed. In this case, the bowl of holy water and aspergelium should be in the narthex.

If there is no baptism, there will instead be a renewal of baptismal vows and asperges. After the silence and stillness following the sermon, the EM1 will lead the Celebrant and Deacon out from their bench to places in front of the Altar. As the EM1 passes the Credence Table, the MC should take the EM1’s prayerbook and hand her/him the bowl of holy water and aspergelium (bowl and aspergelium need to be on the Credence Table before the beginning of the service). The renewal of baptismal vows is led in front between the bottom step of the Altar and the Communion Rail. The Celebrant assisted by the EM1 sprinkle the Assembly. When they return from the asperges, the EM1 and Celebrant rejoin the Deacon in front of the Altar. The MC takes the bowl and aspergelium from the EM1 and hands her/his prayerbook back to the EM1. The Prayers of the People are led from in front of the Altar (this is why the EM1 needs to have her/his prayerbook!). No Confession of Sin at this liturgy. The Peace follows the Prayers of the People.

20

All Inclusive Sunday Customary — All Services (Fall 2015)

ALL INCLUSIVE CUSTOMARY FOR SERVING

AT THE ST. PAUL’S ALTAR

ON SUNDAY MORNINGS

Updated, Fall 2015

Vestments and Clothing

Albs for servers are pure white; all are cassock albs or are albs that can be pulled over the head. Albs may have hoods or no hoods, but no embroidery or other decorative features. Cinctures are always worn with Anglican double-breasted albs. Albs should fall to the top of the ankle.

Personal jewelry or crosses should be unobtrusive and not draw attention to the server.

Shoes should be dark—please no white or brightly colored running shoes.

Avoid any brightly colored T-shirts with patterns or words that might show through the alb.

General Instructions

Adapted from A Manual for Acolytes, Dennis G. Michno

See “Liturgical Presence,” by Robert A. Gallagher for further discussion (this is the green booklet available in the church office).

When standing — stand up straight, and if you are carrying a candle or the processional cross make sure that it is straight. Try to look straight ahead rather than around what you are carrying. Stand with your hands folded at waist level or holding service book.

When kneeling — put all of your weight on your knees and kneel upright. Do not squat or slouch.

When bowing — there are two types of bows: the solemn and the simple. The solemn bow is used when reverencing the altar and at other times as directed. The solemn bow is from the waist, inclining the head and shoulders so that if your hands were out in front of you, they would almost touch your knees. The simple bow, at the name of Jesus and on other occasions of reverence, is made with the head, inclining the shoulders slightly.

While singing a hymn, servers still need to pay attention to what is going on liturgically and watch MC for instructions.

One never bows when carrying a candle or the processional cross.

When genuflecting — genuflection (the bending of the knee) is a sign of reverence to the Blessed Sacrament when reserved in an aumbry, tabernacle, or on the altar. It is done simply and with dignity. Don’t make it look as if you are falling forward or crouching down. [Currently, we do not genuflect during liturgies at St. Paul’s.]

Standing up straight, bend your right knee until it touches the floor — the left knee will naturally bend a bit — and keep your back straight. This will take practice, but again your actions are not to be a distraction to the congregation.

One never genuflects when carrying a candle or the processional cross.

When sitting — sit up straight, knees together, feet on the floor in front of you. Don’t cross your legs or slouch.

Unless you are carrying something, your hands should always be folded and held above the waist. Make a fist of one hand and place it inside the other. Your hands should never hang down at your sides or hang folded below the waist.

When sitting, either fold your hands in your lap or place them straight out on your knees with palms down. They are not meant to support your head!

Always walk slowly and with dignity when serving at the altar or walking in procession. Your movements should never appear rushed or hurried. But at the same time, stiffness must be avoided. Military steps, square corners, and quick turns are all out of place.

When one is serving, eyes should always be focused on the action at the altar, on the reader, or on the preacher. It is very distracting to have a server staring into the congregation or at the ceiling. If you don’t know where to look, the best thing is to keep your eyes lowered and look at the floor. Remember, the MC may need to catch your eye at certain times during the liturgy, so keep an eye on him/her from time to time.

Specific Instructions Concerning Our Customs at St. Paul’s for Sunday Morning Services

7:30 am Holy Eucharist

Prior to the Liturgy

EM (if no sacristan is available)

Set up for 7:30 a.m. Liturgy

Server

During the Liturgy

The Entering Procession

No Gospel Procession at the 7:30 am Service

Prayers of the People, Confession, and Peace

The Offertory

After the Administration of Communion to the People

Retiring Procession

After the Liturgy (either the Server or EM)

9:00 and 11:15 am Holy Eucharist

Preparations for the Service

Master of Ceremonies (MC) arrives about 45 minutes before the start of the service. MC sets out bulletins for servers who will be carrying items in procession, and one for lectors in their chairs for Psalm, and one at ambo for lectors to reference for Lessons. MC reserves about four bulletins in the vesting sacristy for the remaining servers, and takes the rest to the narthex. MC reviews the bulletin, making note of anything out of the ordinary that will occur during the service; reviews who is serving and whether special coaching is needed by any server; and checks to see whether the sacristans have laid out everything required for the service, and does anything they have not done. MC meets with the Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest) about 30 minutes before the start of the service to go over the liturgy, and to confirm that the Altar Book and Gospel Book are correctly marked; the MC takes the Altar Book to the Credence Table, and if there is no Deacon, also places the Gospel Book on the Altar. By about 15 minutes before the start of the service, MC checks to see that all other servers have arrived, and, if necessary, finds replacements. [See additional instructions for MCs in the Master of Ceremonies section of this customary.]

All other servers (Eucharistic Ministers, Thurifer, Acolytes, Crucifer) should arrive and be vested at least a half an hour before the beginning of the service, and make sure the MC knows you are present.

The Thurifer lights the charcoal about 15 minutes before the start of the service to give the coals time to heat up properly. Leave the thurible outside of the Sacristy during prayers.

About 10 minutes before the start of the service, everyone involved in the service gathers in the Sacristy; the MC and/or Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest) will give any special instructions about the service. All then join in preparatory prayers; pray in a circle.

Immediately before moving to the procession, MC makes sure that the outside door to the office and the stairwell door to the parish hall are locked.

All walk to the Narthex (unless the Liturgy begins with a “figure 8” procession – see following section, Solemn Processions at 11:15 am). Acolytes light the torches and stand by the doors into the church in preparation for the procession. MC or EM1 picks up the intercessions book and carries it in procession (MC is responsible to make sure this gets carried in).

Thurifer presents the boat and thurible to the Celebrant, who lays on incense. MC signals the organist that the altar party is ready to process by pressing the button to the left of the main doors into the church.

The Entrance Rite

As the singing of the entrance hymn begins, begin processing. Thurifer, leads; Acolytes and Crucifer follow; then Deacon carrying the Gospel Book; then MC and EM2 abreast (MC on the right, EM2 on the left); lastly, Celebrant and EM1 (with the EM1 to the left of the Celebrant), and Assisting Priest if any to right of Celebrant. When there is no Deacon in the procession, the Gospel Book is placed on the altar prior to the beginning of the liturgy.

Acolytes walk on either side of the Crucifer, with torches held at the same height. Give Thurifer ample room to swing the thurible; but not so much room that the Thurifer looks isolated from the rest of the procession (five paces or so should leave sufficient room). Process unhurriedly toward the altar, remaining abreast throughout.

If there is a wheelchair (or wheelchairs) in the center aisle, Acolytes should pause and let Crucifer pass by the wheelchair first. When Crucifer has passed the wheelchair, he/she should pause until the Acolytes have caught up to them so all three can once again proceed three abreast.

Thurifer goes to the far right and hangs the thurible on its hook and takes his/her place at the bottom step of the altar closest to the wall on the right.

Without pausing once they have stepped up into the chancel, Acolytes place their torches on the altar, going up the steps of the altar at the point of the bend or elbow to the sides of the altar. They then descend the steps directly down the sides and take their places at the bottom step (see diagram).

Crucifer pauses very briefly upon stepping up into the chancel (count “one one-thousand”) to allow the Acolyte to his/her left to move ahead and out of the way. Then Crucifer walks to the left of the altar, puts the processional cross in its holder by the door (or, during Lent, beyond the door in the hallway up to the chapel/office or in the sacristy), and comes back to his/her place closest to the wall on the left.

Deacon places Gospel Book on altar and returns down to the bottom step to his/her position to the right of the central position that will be occupied by the Celebrant.

MC walks toward the right hand side of the altar upon stepping up into the chancel and takes his/her place to the left of the Acolyte on that right hand side of the altar.

EM2 walks toward the left hand side of the altar upon stepping up into the chancel and takes his/her place to the right of the Acolyte on that left hand side of the altar.

Celebrant and EM1 process directly to the bottom step in front of the altar upon entering the chancel. Celebrant is in the middle, between Deacon on Celebrant’s right (when facing the altar) and EM1 on the Celebrant’s left. If there is a Homilist not otherwise serving liturgically, s/he stands and sits on the pulpit side to the right of the EM2 (closer to the assembly).

Positions at the altar after the entering procession:

Celebrant

Deacon

EM1

EM2

MC

Thurifer

Acolyte

Crucifer

When all are in place, and following Celebrant’s lead, all reverence the altar with a profound bow, then turn and, following the Celebrant’s lead, reverence the assembly with a profound bow. This takes place during the musical interlude between the next to the last and the last verses of the hymn.

The Collect of the Day and Liturgy of the Word

All finish singing the opening hymn and remain standing for the collect. In some seasons, there may be other elements as part of the Entrance Rite (Kyrie, Penitential Rite, Gloria, etc.).

All then move to their places (but remain standing): Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 on the front bench on the right (EM1 closest to the assembly, Deacon closest to the credence table); Acolyte, Thurifer, and MC on the back bench to the right (Acolyte closest to the assembly, MC closest to the credence table); EM2, Acolyte, and Crucifer to the bench on the left side (EM2 closest to the pulpit, Crucifer closest to the wall).

All are seated when the Celebrant sits, for the two lessons and Psalm.

The Gospel Procession

After the readings and psalm, all wait to stand until the Celebrant’s lead, following the silence/stillness and the choir’s Sequence Motet, if any. At 9:00 or following a choir Motet, action proceeds immediately upon standing. When a Sequence Hymn is sung by the congregation at 11:15, all stand in place until MC’s signal at the beginning of the next to last verse. Then MC signals Thurifer to bring the thurible and boat to Celebrant so that incense can be laid on. After incense is laid on, Celebrant hands the incense boat to MC as Thurifer takes his/her position in the middle of the gap in the communion rail, facing the altar.

When Thurifer reaches the thurible, that serves as a signal for the Acolytes to remove the torches from the altar for the Gospel procession. (If Acolytes fail to move out, MC should prompt them to do so.) Acolytes move straight up the sides of the altar (they do not go out in front of the altar). They are retracing their steps from the entering procession. Acolytes pick up torches from the altar, turn toward the assembly, and walk down the steps of the altar – again, at the bend or elbow in the steps, just as during the entering procession, and move toward the communion rail, taking their places on either side of Thurifer, facing the altar.

During the final verse of the Sequence Hymn, or after the Thurifer and Acolytes are in place during the silence, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) moves directly from his/her seat up the steps of the altar platform, pausing at the center of the altar where the Gospel book is resting. Simultaneously, EM1 takes his/her position in front of Thurifer and Acolytes – between them and Deacon at the altar.

As the Alleluia verse or Tract begins (sung by cantor from the choir loft), Deacon (or Assisting Priest) raises the Gospel book at the altar. When s/he turns, Acolytes, Thurifer, and EM1 turn in unison. Please remember to create this unified action. Deacon should turn to the right. Acolytes turn inward toward the center. Thurifer and EM1 should turn to the right – unless Deacon (or Assisting Priest) has turned left, then they turn left following Deacon’s (or Assisting Priest’s) lead.

Thurifer leads the procession. Acolytes then step down and process next, followed by EM1; Deacon (or Assisting Priest) follows carrying gospel book aloft. Thurifer moves to the left of the center aisle and stops at the third row of pews (do not count rail in front of first pew as a pew). Acolytes and EM1 move past Thurifer who is standing with his or her back to the third pew and out of the way. Acolytes then turn in to face each other. EM1 stands slightly further down the aisle from Acolytes, turns, and prepares to hold the open Gospel book for the Deacon (or Assisting Priest) to read. Gospel book should be between the two torches. The torches thereby illumine the Gospel.

After Deacon (or Assisting Priest) announces the Gospel, Thurifer hands him/her the thurible. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) censes the book and hands the thurible back to Thurifer. Thurifer stays in place holding the thurible so that the smoke is not blowing in Deacon’s (or Assisting Priest’s) face.

(See legend on earlier diagram.)

After the Gospel has been proclaimed, the procession back follows the same order as the procession to the center of the assembly: Thurifer leads, followed by Acolytes, then EM1, then Deacon (or Assisting Priest) carrying the Gospel book. Thurifer enters the chancel, walks to the left and out the door. Typically Thurifer will hang the thurible on one of the hooks in the hall outside the chancel, then return to hear the sermon before leaving to light new coals. (Thurifer may elect to light new coals during the sermon, then return to the chancel and cross back to his/her seat when the homilist has finished.) As at the beginning of the service, Acolytes do not pause at the communion rail, but process immediately to the altar to replace their torches on the altar (again ascending the altar steps at the bend or elbow). After placing their torches on the altar, Acolytes descend the steps directly down the sides and return to their seats. EM1 pauses very briefly upon stepping up into the chancel (count “one one-thousand”) to allow Acolyte to his/her right to move ahead and out of the way. EM1 returns to his/her seat. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) enters chancel and walks straight to the front of the altar with the Gospel book and places it again on the altar. After Acolytes have moved away from altar and are returning to their seats, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) descends the steps of the altar platform and returns to his/her seat – unless Deacon (or Assisting Priest) is preaching, in which case he/she moves to the pulpit. If Celebrant is preaching, he/she moves to pulpit after Deacon (or Assisting Priest) has replaced the Gospel book on the altar and begun returning to his/her seat (similarly, if there is a homilist seated on the benches behind the pulpit). Upon signal from whoever is preaching, all servers and the assembly are seated for the homily. Thurifer returns to his/her place either while the homilist is returning to his/her seat or at the Peace (both so as not to disrupt the silence/stillness).

Creed and Gathering of the Children from Godly Play

Following Celebrant’s lead, all stand for the Nicene Creed and Prayers of the People, after the silence and stillness, following the sermon. All bow at the words, “By the power of the Holy Spirit ... and was made (hu)man.”

As all rise for the Creed, Crucifer leaves the chancel through the door on the left and goes downstairs with the small cross to gather the children from Godly Play or other activities. Crucifer should approach the door to each Godly Play room (quietly and without disrupting the activities) and make eye contact with an adult in each room through the window in the door. Then Crucifer stands and waits for the children from each room to assemble in a line behind him/her. They process up the aisle during The Peace, if possible. Timing is difficult, depending on how long the Prayers are, and whether the kids are ready to come upstairs.

Prayers of the People

After the conclusion of the Creed, EM1 moves out to his/her position in front of the altar, followed by Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest). This serves as a signal for all other servers to move out to their positions around the altar platform (the same positions as were taken following the entrance procession).

EM1 leads the sung biddings of the Prayers of the People, and Deacon, at the appropriate time in the prayers, reads the written biddings from the intercessions book (which MC should have processed in and discreetly passed off to Deacon after being seated following the opening collect). If EM1 elects not to lead the sung biddings, Deacon leads them, and EM1 reads from the intercessions book. (If there is no deacon, the task falls to MC.) These roles should be discussed and agreed upon prior to the service.

Confession of Sin

If there is a Confession of Sin, all servers turn to face the altar and kneel, or bow if unable to kneel. After the absolution, all stand (only Celebrant stands for the absolution). The Peace is then exchanged, during which MC removes the Gospel Book from the altar and places it on the credence table. After the Peace, Acolyte who has been on the left or pulpit side of the chancel for the Liturgy of the Word crosses over to the right or credence table side for the Liturgy of the Altar. Thurifer should have returned from the working sacristy and hung the thurible on the hook on the right side of the chancel by this time. All are seated as Celebrant welcomes visitors and makes very brief announcements.

The Liturgy of the Altar

Note on bowing: The entire altar party bows with Celebrant and crosses themselves at the elevation of the Elements during the Eucharistic Prayer. One should reverence with a profound bow when crossing in front of the altar.

The Offertory

After the offertory sentence (e.g., “Ascribe to the Lord the honor due his Name; bring offerings and come into his courts”), MC helps Celebrant remove the cope and Acolytes help put the chasuble that hangs on the altar rail over Celebrant’s head. Acolytes then return to the back bench out of the way. EM1 and Celebrant remain in their places at the front bench. Thurifer remains at the back bench, while MC moves to stand at the credence table.

Setting the Table

At the beginning of the offertory hymn, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) takes dressed chalice from credence table, moves up behind the altar, spreads the corporal, sets the chalice on the corporal, and awaits the presentation of the gifts. When Deacon takes the chalice up behind the altar, the Acolyte who will present the small cruets of wine and water moves to credence table with MC; second Acolyte remains in place at the back bench so as to avoid congestion around the credence table.

Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts

Deacon (or Assisting Priest) receives offering plates from usher and blesses the monetary gifts. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) receives the gifts of bread and wine from usher and prepares to make the gifts ready.

MC should pay close attention to see if too much bread has been brought forward – Deacon (or Assisting Priest) may choose not to use a half loaf or a whole loaf that has been brought forward. MC needs to be ready to remove excess bread to the credence table.

The Acolyte who will bring the small cruets of wine and water to the altar should be in place at the credence table with cruets in hand – do not get too absorbed in singing the offertory hymn! Acolytes need to have agreed among themselves before the service or during the peace as to who will present the cruets of water and wine and who will assist Celebrant in the lavabo (washing of hands).

As oblation bearers turn and leave the chancel, Acolyte brings cruets of wine and water from credence table to altar. The cruets are held with the handles extended toward Deacon, water in left hand and wine in the right. Deacon will take the wine cruet (unless there is already sufficient wine in the large flagon presented by the usher) and pour a quantity of wine into the chalice. Meanwhile, Acolyte moves the water cruet from the left to the right hand. The wine is handed back to Acolyte’s left hand and the water is offered to Deacon in the right hand. Then, the wine cruet is moved to the right hand. After Deacon passes the water back to the acolyte’s left hand, bow slightly and return to the credence table.

After the table and gifts have been made ready, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) signals to Celebrant who now moves from the front bench up behind the altar, along with EM1. EM1 needs to take the altar book from credence table – MC may hand book to EM1 as he/she passes by.

After the hymn when Celebrant and EM1 are in place standing behind the altar, with a signal from MC, Thurifer brings the thurible and incense to Celebrant. (At this point, second Acolyte moves discreetly from back bench to stand in front of the credence table.) After incense is laid on, Celebrant takes the thurible and Thurifer returns boat to the credence table and waits while the altar is censed. Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 reverence the altar and gifts with a profound bow. Celebrant first censes the gifts, then Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 walk completely around the altar (moving counterclockwise) as Celebrant censes the altar. Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 pause in front of the altar, reverence with a profound bow, and the crucifix is censed.

When Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 get back behind the altar, Thurifer ascends altar platform and receives thurible from Celebrant. Thurifer walks down the altar steps and around to the front of the altar, censes the altar party, and then the assembly, reverencing both groups before and after censing with a profound bow. Thurifer takes her/his place at the right bend or elbow of the steps as soon as the assembly has been censed. Note: Objects like the crèche and the Paschal Candle are censed ONLY the first time they are placed in the worship space during the appropriate season. (See “Seasonal Variations” section for particular instructions.)

As Thurifer finishes censing the altar party, this is the cue for the Acolyte who will wash the Celebrant’s hands (lavabo) to pick up the bowl, towel, and cruet of water. Place the bowl in left hand and towel on left forearm, hold water cruet in right hand. As Thurifer turns to cense the assembly, go up to Celebrant and pour the water over his/her hands. After s/he has wiped her/his hands, Celebrant and Acolyte acknowledge one another with a simple bow and Acolyte returns items to the credence table.

The Great Thanksgiving

MC will generally ring the bells during the Eucharist. S/he gets in place and prepares and rings the bell with force wherever the “Sanctus Bell” Prayer Book indicates.

All Move Toward the Altar

Crucifer has been standing back by the bench on the pulpit side along with EM2 and sometimes a second priest or homilist. As Thurifer is moving into position after the censing of the assembly and Acolyte returns to the credence table after the lavabo, all servers take their places at the steps for the Great Thanksgiving. Please be in place at the steps of the altar BEFORE the opening dialogue: “The Lord be with you.” (Acolytes, however, should move to their respective places together after the second Acolyte finishes replacing the items used during the lavabo. If this takes place after the opening dialogue, please move discreetly into place so as not to detract attention from Celebrant.) It is desirable, as much as possible, for the servers on both sides of the chancel to move forward simultaneously. Thurifer and both Acolytes stand at the steps on the credence table side, leaving space near the wall for MC to ascend and descend the altar steps as necessary. MC stands at the back bench by the Sanctus bell. Crucifer and EM2 stand at the steps of the altar on the pulpit side. And, of course, EM1, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant stand behind the altar.

The Sanctus

At “…who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name,” all except Thurifer bow profoundly for the Sanctus. The bell is rung at each of the three “Holies.” Thurifer will cense during each “Holy.” MC should be careful not to ring the bell for the first “Holy” during the silence or the musical introduction that precedes the sanctus in some of the musical settings we use – wait for Celebrant (or cantor) to say “Holy.” Note: If the choir happens to be singing a Latin version of the mass (on high holy days), check with the choirmaster before the service to see if s/he wants the big bell to be rung during the singing of the sanctus, or whether you should use the small bells from the sacristy. All servers relax up from their profound bow during the words “Hosanna in the highest.”

At “Blessed is he (the one) who comes in the name of the Lord,” all (except the Thurifer, if Thurifer’s right hand is occupied by the thurible) make the sign of the cross. Hands should be folded and held above the waist when not bowing or genuflecting.

Consecration

After “Do this for the remembrance of me,” all servers except the Thurifer reverence with a profound bow; MC rings the bell a first time. All stand upright again as Celebrant elevates first the bread; MC rings a second time. All reverence except the Thurifer with another profound bow as MC rings a third time. The same procedure is followed for the chalice of wine. Servers make the sign of the cross as the elements are elevated. After the third bell is rung, all stand upright.

Meanwhile, Thurifer will cense, with three series of two swings, toward the altar during the consecration (as three bells are rung). The simplest way is by holding the chain in the left hand and grasping it near the thurible with the right hand.

A final profound bow after the people’s “Amen” is made only by Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1.

The Lord’s Prayer

Hands are held in a modified “orans” position palms outward, arms bent and relaxed until the Amen at the end of the Lord’s Prayer.

The Breaking of the Bread and Fraction Anthem

Usually, after Celebrant has broken the bread and a moment of silence and stillness has been observed and the Fraction Anthem has been begun by a cantor from the choir loft, Thurifer moves to place thurible on hook and MC moves to bring the second chalice for the wine and second paten for bread to Deacon. Avoid movement while the Celebrant is breaking the bread.

Invitation to Communion

Celebrant intones (or says), “The Gifts of God for the People of God.” Three bells are rung by MC, inviting the assembly forward.

Ministration of Communion

After these final three bells, EM2 ascends the steps to the altar to take the second chalice. All servers who are not involved in ministering communion remain facing the altar but move back a little from its steps to receive communion. After receiving communion, servers who are not performing other tasks return to their seats on the benches while the assembly receives communion. Do not stare at the people coming to receive.

MC folds Corporal on altar, and carries that, Pall, Altar Book, and offering plates to credence table. MC may need to adjust positions of items on the credence table slightly, so that there will be room for the placement of the remaining sacrament after the Eucharist (on the right hand side). MC should have a prayer book marked and ready with the prayer for consecrating additional bread or wine (*BCP*, 408), in case that is required.

Thurifer, after receiving communion, will take up the flagon of consecrated wine from the altar (along with a purificator) and stand in front of the altar, available as required to refill the chalice if approached by EM. Thurifer should maintain an awareness of how much wine remains in the flagon, and if it seems there may not be enough to serve the entire assembly, s/he should signal discreetly to MC.

One Acolyte, after receiving communion, will take up the small paten of gluten-free hosts and stand in front of the altar (next to Thurifer), available to provide a host to Celebrant or Deacon (or Assisting Priest), should a communicant request a gluten-free host.

When they have finished serving the bread and wine, Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EMs will bring bread plates and chalices to the credence table and will communicate one another. Thurifer and Acolyte will bring flagon and small paten to the credence table and return to their seats on the back bench.

After Celebrant has been communicated, s/he will move in front of bench to have the chasuble removed. Acolytes need to be ready for this action. Acolytes remove chasuble and place it back on the communion rail. Thurifer assists Celebrant in putting the cope back on. Acolyte who crossed over to the credence table side during the peace now crosses back over to the pulpit side, reverencing as s/he crosses in front of the altar, and takes his/her seat between EM2 and Crucifer. MC ensures that remaining consecrated bread and wine are covered, then returns to his/her seat. (Ablutions generally occur after the conclusion of the service.)

Post-communion Prayer, Blessing, and Closing Hymn

A communion hymn is sung at 11:15, but not at 9:00. Silence/stillness follows, then all stand at Celebrant’s lead as Deacon (or Assisting Priest), Celebrant, and EM1 move behind the altar, where the post-communion prayer is led and the blessing is given, followed by the closing hymn.

Near the beginning of the third to the last verse of the closing hymn, MC will signal Thurifer to have incense laid on by Celebrant. This is the cue for the Acolytes to remove processional torches from the altar and for Crucifer to get the processional cross. All this happens as soon as Thurifer moves up the steps of the altar toward the Celebrant. Acolytes move from their seats and approach the altar from the sides to get the torches as they did at the Gospel procession, then descend the steps at the elbows. All servers form up for the recessional. The goal is for the entire altar party to be in place facing the altar before the end of the next to the last verse of the closing hymn: Thurifer outside the communion rail on the floor at the crossing; Crucifer flanked by Acolytes at the gap in the communion rail; Celebrant in the center; flanked by EM1 and EM2 to Celebrant’s left; Deacon (or Assisting Priest) and MC to Celebrant’s right.

The Recessional

All servers face the altar. During the musical interlude between the next to the last and the last verses of the hymn, all except Thurifer, Acolytes, and Crucifer will reverence the altar with a profound bow; turn and reverence the assembly with a profound bow; then all recess unhurriedly out of the church. Do not begin the recessional until the singing of the final verse of the hymn begins!

Upon reaching the narthex all servers line up gracefully and turn to face the assembly. Crucifer and Acolytes should line up between the front doors and the baptismal font.

Deacon sings or says the Dismissal and the postlude begins. Torches are blown out. MC, EM1, and EM2 may be asked to carry vestments or service books back to the sacristy.

After the Service

All servers assist in ablutions (elements should be consumed reverently), removing communion vessels, offering plates, etc., from the credence table and with straightening out hymnals on the benches, removing service programs and other items from the chancel. Thurifer puts away incense, coals, and thurible. Leftover coals in water may be poured onto clear ground outside. MC coordinates a short debrief of the service in the office area with all servers.

Solemn Processions at 11:15 am

At solemn processions, Thurifer, MC, EM1, EM2, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant enter from the side door behind the pulpit upon the ringing of bells with the cord. MC rings the bell. The order in going out is Thurifer, MC, EM2, EM1, Deacon (Assisting Priest), Celebrant. All come in and find their positions in front of the altar. Deacon places the gospel book on the altar and all reverence the altar with a profound bow, turn, reverence the people in a profound bow. Incense is laid on by Celebrant, then Thurifer takes the boat to the credence and returns to his or her position in front of the altar.

When the bell is rung, Acotlytes (with torches) and Crucifer (with processional cross) who have been waiting in the narthex with the choir proceed up the main aisle toward the altar and stop at the front pew.

The Deacon (if no Deacon— Celebrant or Assisting Priest) bids the procession. When the singing of the first verse of the processional hymn begins, Thurifer leads out and proceeds to his/her right and down the side aisle. Thurifer is followed by Acolytes and Crucifer (torch-cross-torch in single file down the side aisles and three abreast in the center aisle). If Deacon processes with gospel book, he/she follows cross and torches, ahead of choir. Choir follows (not reverencing the altar). After the choir come EM2 and MC (in single file in the side aisles and two abreast in the center aisle), and finally EM1, Assisting Priest if any (or Deacon if not carrying gospel book), and Celebrant (in single file in the side aisles and three abreast in the center aisle).

Solemn processions trace a figure eight (pulpit side aisle, center aisle, Mary side aisle and center aisle again).

When the procession makes its way toward the altar via the center aisle the final time, Crucifer and Acolytes will do what they would normally do and take their usual positions on the side steps of the altar. The choir divides and goes down the two side aisles and up to the loft. EM2 and MC proceed into the chancel and take their normal positions at the side steps of the altar followed by EM1, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant. All servers reverence the altar with a profound bow and turn to face the assembly, without reverencing the people again. The service then continues as normal.

Note: At 11:10, MC goes to the narthex and picks up the intercessions book, returns to the stairwell and gives it to EM1 who carries it in procession. Alternatively, MC may arrange for a greeter to pass the intercessions book off to him/her during the procession, at one of the times when MC passes the doors at the end of the center aisle.

Note: During the final procession up the center aisle toward the altar, servers should be on the proper side of the center aisle so that they end up in their correct positions at the end of the procession.

Stations and Station Collects within a Solemn Procession

When there is a station at an icon in the nave or in the narthex, Thurifer stops at the icon; Crucifer, Acolytes, and choir continue on and stop at an appropriate place so that the choir is past the station. EM1, Deacon, and Celebrant join Thurifer at the station. MC and EM2 remain close to station. Celebrant intones the versicle and the people respond. Celebrant censes the icon and intones the collect. After the collect is concluded, Thurifer proceeds to the front of the procession and continues.

Note: If the station is at the crèche or the Mary icon, the cross and torches will stop at the back of the center aisle (near exit sign under choir loft). If the station is at the Paul icon, Michael icon, or the baptismal font, the cross and torches proceed at least ¾ of the way down the main aisle and stop.

“Torches Pre-Set” Variation

Due to personnel availability limitations (particularly during the summer months) it is sometimes necessary to pre-set the torches on the altar rather than having Acolytes. This variation is used at 9:00 with some regularity but should be used sparingly at 11:15. When this occurs there are several modifications that the MC and others will need to keep in mind.

If the torches are in the sacristy, MC needs to ensure these get placed back out onto the altar. Ten minutes before the beginning of the service, MC (or another server designated by MC) lights the torches using one of the Candle Lighters hanging in the hallway outside the door to the chancel.

During the opening procession, Crucifer walks behind Thurifer as usual, alone rather than flanked by Acolytes.

The Gospel procession happens as usual, only without the Acolytes: Thurifer leads out with EM1 following, then Deacon. EM1 stops in the same position in the aisle where s/he would if Acolytes were present. The Gospel is proclaimed, then the party returns to the chancel in the same order.

When lining up for the recessional, Crucifer lines up as usual, in the center of the gap in the communion rail, alone rather than flanked by Acolytes.

After the service, MC (or another server designated by MC) should extinguish the torches on the altar.

There are a number of tasks normally performed by Acolytes that MC will need to make sure are covered by other servers. MC should arrange coverage of these tasks with other servers at his/her discretion in advance of the service. In many cases the simplest solution may be to have the Crucifer cross to the Mary side of the chancel during the Peace and assist with those tasks, which include:

Reminders about Presence throughout the Liturgy

16

All Inclusive Sunday Customary — Principal Service Only (Fall 2017)

ALL INCLUSIVE CUSTOMARY FOR SERVING

AT THE ST. PAUL’S ALTAR

ON SUNDAY MORNINGS

Updated, Fall 2017

Vestments and Clothing

Albs for servers are pure white; all are cassock albs or are albs that can be pulled over the head. Albs may have hoods or no hoods, but no embroidery or other decorative features. Cinctures are always worn with Anglican double-breasted albs. Albs should fall to the top of the ankle.

Personal jewelry or crosses should be unobtrusive and not draw attention to the server.

Shoes should be dark—please no white or brightly colored running shoes.

Avoid any brightly colored T-shirts with patterns or words that might show through the alb.

General Instructions

Adapted from A Manual for Acolytes, Dennis G. Michno

See “Liturgical Presence,” by Robert A. Gallagher for further discussion (this is the green booklet available in the church office).

When standing — stand up straight, and if you are carrying a candle or the processional cross make sure that it is straight. Try to look straight ahead rather than around what you are carrying. Stand with your hands folded at waist level or holding service book.

When kneeling — put all of your weight on your knees and kneel upright. Do not squat or slouch.

When bowing — there are two types of bows: the solemn and the simple. The solemn bow is used when reverencing the altar and at other times as directed. The solemn bow is from the waist, inclining the head and shoulders so that if your hands were out in front of you, they would almost touch your knees. The simple bow, at the name of Jesus and on other occasions of reverence, is made with the head, inclining the shoulders slightly.

While singing a hymn, servers still need to pay attention to what is going on liturgically and watch MC for instructions.

One never bows when carrying a candle or the processional cross.

When genuflecting — genuflection (the bending of the knee) is a sign of reverence to the Blessed Sacrament when reserved in an aumbry, tabernacle, or on the altar. It is done simply and with dignity. Don’t make it look as if you are falling forward or crouching down. [Currently, we do not genuflect during liturgies at St. Paul’s.]

Standing up straight, bend your right knee until it touches the floor — the left knee will naturally bend a bit — and keep your back straight. This will take practice, but again your actions are not to be a distraction to the congregation.

One never genuflects when carrying a candle or the processional cross.

When sitting — sit up straight, knees together, feet on the floor in front of you. Don’t cross your legs or slouch.

Unless you are carrying something, your hands should always be folded and held above the waist. Make a fist of one hand and place it inside the other. Your hands should never hang down at your sides or hang folded below the waist.

When sitting, either fold your hands in your lap or place them straight out on your knees with palms down. They are not meant to support your head!

Always walk slowly and with dignity when serving at the altar or walking in procession. Your movements should never appear rushed or hurried. But at the same time, stiffness must be avoided. Military steps, square corners, and quick turns are all out of place.

When one is serving, eyes should always be focused on the action at the altar, on the reader, or on the preacher. It is very distracting to have a server staring into the congregation or at the ceiling. If you don’t know where to look, the best thing is to keep your eyes lowered and look at the floor. Remember, the MC may need to catch your eye at certain times during the liturgy, so keep an eye on him/her from time to time.

Specific Instructions Concerning Our Customs at St. Paul’s for Principal Sunday Morning Service

Preparations for the Service

Master of Ceremonies (MC) arrives about 45 minutes before the start of the service. MC sets out bulletins for servers who will be carrying items in procession, and one for lectors in their chairs for Psalm, and one at ambo for lectors to reference for Lessons. MC reserves about four bulletins in the vesting sacristy for the remaining servers, and takes the rest to the narthex. MC reviews the bulletin, making note of anything out of the ordinary that will occur during the service; reviews who is serving and whether special coaching is needed by any server; and checks to see whether the sacristans have laid out everything required for the service, and does anything they have not done. MC meets with the Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest) about 30 minutes before the start of the service to go over the liturgy, and to confirm that the Altar Book and Gospel Book are correctly marked; the MC takes the Altar Book to the Credence Table, and if there is no Deacon, also places the Gospel Book on the Altar. By about 15 minutes before the start of the service, MC checks to see that all other servers have arrived, and, if necessary, finds replacements. [See additional instructions for MCs in the Master of Ceremonies section of this customary.]

All other servers (Eucharistic Ministers, Thurifer, Acolytes, Crucifer) should arrive and be vested at least a half an hour before the beginning of the service, and make sure the MC knows you are present.

The Thurifer lights the charcoal about 15 minutes before the start of the service to give the coals time to heat up properly. Leave the thurible outside of the Sacristy during prayers.

About 10 minutes before the start of the service, everyone involved in the service gathers in the Sacristy; the MC and/or Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest) will give any special instructions about the service. All then join in preparatory prayers; pray in a circle.

Immediately before moving to the procession, MC makes sure that the outside door to the office and the stairwell door to the parish hall are locked.

All walk to the Narthex (unless the Liturgy begins with a “figure 8” procession – see following section, Solemn Processions at 11:15 am). Acolytes light the torches and stand by the doors into the church in preparation for the procession. MC or EM1 picks up the intercessions book and carries it in procession (MC is responsible to make sure this gets carried in).

Thurifer presents the boat and thurible to the Celebrant, who lays on incense. MC signals the organist that the altar party is ready to process by pressing the button to the left of the main doors into the church.

The Entrance Rite

As the singing of the entrance hymn begins, begin processing. Thurifer, leads; Acolytes and Crucifer follow; then Deacon carrying the Gospel Book; then MC and EM2 abreast (MC on the right, EM2 on the left); lastly, Celebrant and EM1 (with the EM1 to the left of the Celebrant), and Assisting Priest if any to right of Celebrant. When there is no Deacon in the procession, the Gospel Book is placed on the altar prior to the beginning of the liturgy.

Acolytes walk on either side of the Crucifer, with torches held at the same height. Give Thurifer ample room to swing the thurible; but not so much room that the Thurifer looks isolated from the rest of the procession (five paces or so should leave sufficient room). Process unhurriedly toward the altar, remaining abreast throughout.

If there is a wheelchair (or wheelchairs) in the center aisle, Acolytes should pause and let Crucifer pass by the wheelchair first. When Crucifer has passed the wheelchair, he/she should pause until the Acolytes have caught up to them so all three can once again proceed three abreast.

Thurifer goes to the far right and hangs the thurible on its hook and takes his/her place at the bottom step of the altar closest to the wall on the right.

Without pausing once they have stepped up into the chancel, Acolytes place their torches on the altar, going up the steps of the altar at the point of the bend or elbow to the sides of the altar. They then descend the steps directly down the sides and take their places at the bottom step (see diagram).

Crucifer pauses very briefly upon stepping up into the chancel (count “one one-thousand”) to allow the Acolyte to his/her left to move ahead and out of the way. Then Crucifer walks to the left of the altar, puts the processional cross in its holder by the door (or, during Lent, beyond the door in the hallway up to the chapel/office or in the sacristy), and comes back to his/her place closest to the wall on the left.

Deacon places Gospel Book on altar and returns down to the bottom step to his/her position to the right of the central position that will be occupied by the Celebrant.

MC walks toward the right hand side of the altar upon stepping up into the chancel and takes his/her place to the left of the Acolyte on that right hand side of the altar.

EM2 walks toward the left hand side of the altar upon stepping up into the chancel and takes his/her place to the right of the Acolyte on that left hand side of the altar.

Celebrant and EM1 process directly to the bottom step in front of the altar upon entering the chancel. Celebrant is in the middle, between Deacon on Celebrant’s right (when facing the altar) and EM1 on the Celebrant’s left. If there is a Homilist not otherwise serving liturgically, s/he stands and sits on the pulpit side to the right of the EM2 (closer to the assembly).

Positions at the altar after the entering procession:

Celebrant

Deacon

EM1

EM2

MC

Thurifer

Acolyte

Crucifer

When all are in place, and following Celebrant’s lead, all reverence the altar with a profound bow, then turn and, following the Celebrant’s lead, reverence the assembly with a profound bow. This takes place during the musical interlude between the next to the last and the last verses of the hymn.

The Collect of the Day and Liturgy of the Word

All finish singing the opening hymn and remain standing for the collect. In some seasons, there may be other elements as part of the Entrance Rite (Kyrie, Penitential Rite, Gloria, etc.).

All then move to their places (but remain standing): Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 on the front bench on the right (EM1 closest to the assembly, Deacon closest to the credence table); Acolyte, Thurifer, and MC on the back bench to the right (Acolyte closest to the assembly, MC closest to the credence table); EM2, Acolyte, and Crucifer to the bench on the left side (EM2 closest to the pulpit, Crucifer closest to the wall).

All are seated when the Celebrant sits, for the two lessons and Psalm.

The Gospel Procession

After the readings and psalm, all wait to stand until the Celebrant’s lead, following the silence/stillness and the choir’s Sequence Motet, if any. At 9:00 or following a choir Motet, action proceeds immediately upon standing. When a Sequence Hymn is sung by the congregation at 11:15, all stand in place until MC’s signal at the beginning of the next to last verse. Then MC signals Thurifer to bring the thurible and boat to Celebrant so that incense can be laid on. After incense is laid on, Celebrant hands the incense boat to MC as Thurifer takes his/her position in the middle of the gap in the communion rail, facing the altar.

When Thurifer reaches the thurible, that serves as a signal for the Acolytes to remove the torches from the altar for the Gospel procession. (If Acolytes fail to move out, MC should prompt them to do so.) Acolytes move straight up the sides of the altar (they do not go out in front of the altar). They are retracing their steps from the entering procession. Acolytes pick up torches from the altar, turn toward the assembly, and walk down the steps of the altar – again, at the bend or elbow in the steps, just as during the entering procession, and move toward the communion rail, taking their places on either side of Thurifer, facing the altar.

During the final verse of the Sequence Hymn, or after the Thurifer and Acolytes are in place during the silence, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) moves directly from his/her seat up the steps of the altar platform, pausing at the center of the altar where the Gospel book is resting. Simultaneously, EM1 takes his/her position in front of Thurifer and Acolytes – between them and Deacon at the altar.

As the Alleluia verse or Tract begins (sung by cantor from the choir loft), Deacon (or Assisting Priest) raises the Gospel book at the altar. When s/he turns, Acolytes, Thurifer, and EM1 turn in unison. Please remember to create this unified action. Deacon should turn to the right. Acolytes turn inward toward the center. Thurifer and EM1 should turn to the right – unless Deacon (or Assisting Priest) has turned left, then they turn left following Deacon’s (or Assisting Priest’s) lead.

Thurifer leads the procession. Acolytes then step down and process next, followed by EM1; Deacon (or Assisting Priest) follows carrying gospel book aloft. Thurifer moves to the left of the center aisle and stops at the third row of pews (do not count rail in front of first pew as a pew). Acolytes and EM1 move past Thurifer who is standing with his or her back to the third pew and out of the way. Acolytes then turn in to face each other. EM1 stands slightly further down the aisle from Acolytes, turns, and prepares to hold the open Gospel book for the Deacon (or Assisting Priest) to read. Gospel book should be between the two torches. The torches thereby illumine the Gospel.

After Deacon (or Assisting Priest) announces the Gospel, Thurifer hands him/her the thurible. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) censes the book and hands the thurible back to Thurifer. Thurifer stays in place holding the thurible so that the smoke is not blowing in Deacon’s (or Assisting Priest’s) face.

(See legend on earlier diagram.)

After the Gospel has been proclaimed, the procession back follows the same order as the procession to the center of the assembly: Thurifer leads, followed by Acolytes, then EM1, then Deacon (or Assisting Priest) carrying the Gospel book. Thurifer enters the chancel, walks to the left and out the door. Typically Thurifer will hang the thurible on one of the hooks in the hall outside the chancel, then return to hear the sermon before leaving to light new coals. (Thurifer may elect to light new coals during the sermon, then return to the chancel and cross back to his/her seat when the homilist has finished.) As at the beginning of the service, Acolytes do not pause at the communion rail, but process immediately to the altar to replace their torches on the altar (again ascending the altar steps at the bend or elbow). After placing their torches on the altar, Acolytes descend the steps directly down the sides and return to their seats. EM1 pauses very briefly upon stepping up into the chancel (count “one one-thousand”) to allow Acolyte to his/her right to move ahead and out of the way. EM1 returns to his/her seat. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) enters chancel and walks straight to the front of the altar with the Gospel book and places it again on the altar. After Acolytes have moved away from altar and are returning to their seats, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) descends the steps of the altar platform and returns to his/her seat – unless Deacon (or Assisting Priest) is preaching, in which case he/she moves to the pulpit. If Celebrant is preaching, he/she moves to pulpit after Deacon (or Assisting Priest) has replaced the Gospel book on the altar and begun returning to his/her seat (similarly, if there is a homilist seated on the benches behind the pulpit). Upon signal from whoever is preaching, all servers and the assembly are seated for the homily. Thurifer returns to his/her place either while the homilist is returning to his/her seat or at the Peace (both so as not to disrupt the silence/stillness).

Creed and Gathering of the Children from Godly Play

Following Celebrant’s lead, all stand for the Nicene Creed and Prayers of the People, after the silence and stillness, following the sermon. All bow at the words, “By the power of the Holy Spirit ... and was made (hu)man.”

As all rise for the Creed, Crucifer leaves the chancel through the door on the left and goes downstairs with the small cross to gather the children from Godly Play or other activities. Crucifer should approach the door to each Godly Play room (quietly and without disrupting the activities) and make eye contact with an adult in each room through the window in the door. Then Crucifer stands and waits for the children from each room to assemble in a line behind him/her. They process up the aisle during The Peace, if possible. Timing is difficult, depending on how long the Prayers are, and whether the kids are ready to come upstairs.

Prayers of the People

After the conclusion of the Creed, EM1 moves out to his/her position in front of the altar, followed by Celebrant and Deacon (or Assisting Priest). This serves as a signal for all other servers to move out to their positions around the altar platform (the same positions as were taken following the entrance procession).

EM1 leads the sung biddings of the Prayers of the People, and Deacon, at the appropriate time in the prayers, reads the written biddings from the intercessions book (which MC should have processed in and discreetly passed off to Deacon after being seated following the opening collect). If EM1 elects not to lead the sung biddings, Deacon leads them, and EM1 reads from the intercessions book. (If there is no deacon, the task falls to MC.) These roles should be discussed and agreed upon prior to the service.

Confession of Sin

If there is a Confession of Sin, all servers turn to face the altar and kneel, or bow if unable to kneel. After the absolution, all stand (only Celebrant stands for the absolution). The Peace is then exchanged, during which MC removes the Gospel Book from the altar and places it on the credence table. After the Peace, Acolyte who has been on the left or pulpit side of the chancel for the Liturgy of the Word crosses over to the right or credence table side for the Liturgy of the Altar. Thurifer should have returned from the working sacristy and hung the thurible on the hook on the right side of the chancel by this time. All are seated as Celebrant welcomes visitors and makes very brief announcements.

The Liturgy of the Altar

Note on bowing: The entire altar party bows with Celebrant and crosses themselves at the elevation of the Elements during the Eucharistic Prayer. One should reverence with a profound bow when crossing in front of the altar.

The Offertory

After the offertory sentence (e.g., “Ascribe to the Lord the honor due his Name; bring offerings and come into his courts”), MC helps Celebrant remove the cope and Acolytes help put the chasuble that hangs on the altar rail over Celebrant’s head. Acolytes then return to the back bench out of the way. EM1 and Celebrant remain in their places at the front bench. Thurifer remains at the back bench, while MC moves to stand at the credence table.

Setting the Table

At the beginning of the offertory hymn, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) takes dressed chalice from credence table, moves up behind the altar, spreads the corporal, sets the chalice on the corporal, and awaits the presentation of the gifts. When Deacon takes the chalice up behind the altar, the Acolyte who will present the small cruets of wine and water moves to credence table with MC; second Acolyte remains in place at the back bench so as to avoid congestion around the credence table.

Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts

Deacon (or Assisting Priest) receives offering plates from usher and blesses the monetary gifts. Deacon (or Assisting Priest) receives the gifts of bread and wine from usher and prepares to make the gifts ready.

MC should pay close attention to see if too much bread has been brought forward – Deacon (or Assisting Priest) may choose not to use a half loaf or a whole loaf that has been brought forward. MC needs to be ready to remove excess bread to the credence table.

The Acolyte who will bring the small cruets of wine and water to the altar should be in place at the credence table with cruets in hand – do not get too absorbed in singing the offertory hymn! Acolytes need to have agreed among themselves before the service or during the peace as to who will present the cruets of water and wine and who will assist Celebrant in the lavabo (washing of hands).

As oblation bearers turn and leave the chancel, Acolyte brings cruets of wine and water from credence table to altar. The cruets are held with the handles extended toward Deacon, water in left hand and wine in the right. Deacon will take the wine cruet (unless there is already sufficient wine in the large flagon presented by the usher) and pour a quantity of wine into the chalice. Meanwhile, Acolyte moves the water cruet from the left to the right hand. The wine is handed back to Acolyte’s left hand and the water is offered to Deacon in the right hand. Then, the wine cruet is moved to the right hand. After Deacon passes the water back to the acolyte’s left hand, bow slightly and return to the credence table.

After the table and gifts have been made ready, Deacon (or Assisting Priest) signals to Celebrant who now moves from the front bench up behind the altar, along with EM1. EM1 needs to take the altar book from credence table – MC may hand book to EM1 as he/she passes by.

After the hymn when Celebrant and EM1 are in place standing behind the altar, with a signal from MC, Thurifer brings the thurible and incense to Celebrant. (At this point, second Acolyte moves discreetly from back bench to stand in front of the credence table.) After incense is laid on, Celebrant takes the thurible and Thurifer returns boat to the credence table and waits while the altar is censed. Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 reverence the altar and gifts with a profound bow. Celebrant first censes the gifts, then Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 walk completely around the altar (moving counterclockwise) as Celebrant censes the altar. Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 pause in front of the altar, reverence with a profound bow, and the crucifix is censed.

When Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1 get back behind the altar, Thurifer ascends altar platform and receives thurible from Celebrant. Thurifer walks down the altar steps and around to the front of the altar, censes the altar party, and then the assembly, reverencing both groups before and after censing with a profound bow. Thurifer takes her/his place at the right bend or elbow of the steps as soon as the assembly has been censed. Note: Objects like the crèche and the Paschal Candle are censed ONLY the first time they are placed in the worship space during the appropriate season. (See “Seasonal Variations” section for particular instructions.)

As Thurifer finishes censing the altar party, this is the cue for the Acolyte who will wash the Celebrant’s hands (lavabo) to pick up the bowl, towel, and cruet of water. Place the bowl in left hand and towel on left forearm, hold water cruet in right hand. As Thurifer turns to cense the assembly, go up to Celebrant and pour the water over his/her hands. After s/he has wiped her/his hands, Celebrant and Acolyte acknowledge one another with a simple bow and Acolyte returns items to the credence table.

The Great Thanksgiving

MC will generally ring the bells during the Eucharist. S/he gets in place and prepares and rings the bell with force wherever the “Sanctus Bell” Prayer Book indicates.

All Move Toward the Altar

Crucifer has been standing back by the bench on the pulpit side along with EM2 and sometimes a second priest or homilist. As Thurifer is moving into position after the censing of the assembly and Acolyte returns to the credence table after the lavabo, all servers take their places at the steps for the Great Thanksgiving. Please be in place at the steps of the altar BEFORE the opening dialogue: “The Lord be with you.” (Acolytes, however, should move to their respective places together after the second Acolyte finishes replacing the items used during the lavabo. If this takes place after the opening dialogue, please move discreetly into place so as not to detract attention from Celebrant.) It is desirable, as much as possible, for the servers on both sides of the chancel to move forward simultaneously. Thurifer and both Acolytes stand at the steps on the credence table side, leaving space near the wall for MC to ascend and descend the altar steps as necessary. MC stands at the back bench by the Sanctus bell. Crucifer and EM2 stand at the steps of the altar on the pulpit side. And, of course, EM1, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant stand behind the altar.

The Sanctus

At “…who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name,” all except Thurifer bow profoundly for the Sanctus. The bell is rung at each of the three “Holies.” Thurifer will cense during each “Holy.” MC should be careful not to ring the bell for the first “Holy” during the silence or the musical introduction that precedes the sanctus in some of the musical settings we use – wait for Celebrant (or cantor) to say “Holy.” Note: If the choir happens to be singing a Latin version of the mass (on high holy days), check with the choirmaster before the service to see if s/he wants the big bell to be rung during the singing of the sanctus, or whether you should use the small bells from the sacristy. All servers relax up from their profound bow during the words “Hosanna in the highest.”

At “Blessed is he (the one) who comes in the name of the Lord,” all (except the Thurifer, if Thurifer’s right hand is occupied by the thurible) make the sign of the cross. Hands should be folded and held above the waist when not bowing or genuflecting.

Consecration

After “Do this for the remembrance of me,” all servers except the Thurifer reverence with a profound bow; MC rings the bell a first time. All stand upright again as Celebrant elevates first the bread; MC rings a second time. All reverence except the Thurifer with another profound bow as MC rings a third time. The same procedure is followed for the chalice of wine. Servers make the sign of the cross as the elements are elevated. After the third bell is rung, all stand upright.

Meanwhile, Thurifer will cense, with three series of two swings, toward the altar during the consecration (as three bells are rung). The simplest way is by holding the chain in the left hand and grasping it near the thurible with the right hand.

A final profound bow after the people’s “Amen” is made only by Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EM1.

The Lord’s Prayer

Hands are held in a modified “orans” position palms outward, arms bent and relaxed until the Amen at the end of the Lord’s Prayer.

The Breaking of the Bread and Fraction Anthem

Usually, after Celebrant has broken the bread and a moment of silence and stillness has been observed and the Fraction Anthem has been begun by a cantor from the choir loft, Thurifer moves to place thurible on hook and MC moves to bring the second chalice for the wine and second paten for bread to Deacon. Avoid movement while the Celebrant is breaking the bread.

Invitation to Communion

Celebrant intones (or says), “The Gifts of God for the People of God.” Three bells are rung by MC, inviting the assembly forward.

Ministration of Communion

After these final three bells, EM2 ascends the steps to the altar to take the second chalice. All servers who are not involved in ministering communion remain facing the altar but move back a little from its steps to receive communion. After receiving communion, servers who are not performing other tasks return to their seats on the benches while the assembly receives communion. Do not stare at the people coming to receive.

MC folds Corporal on altar, and carries that, Pall, Altar Book, and offering plates to credence table. MC may need to adjust positions of items on the credence table slightly, so that there will be room for the placement of the remaining sacrament after the Eucharist (on the right hand side). MC should have a prayer book marked and ready with the prayer for consecrating additional bread or wine (*BCP*, 408), in case that is required.

Thurifer, after receiving communion, will take up the flagon of consecrated wine from the altar (along with a purificator) and stand in front of the altar, available as required to refill the chalice if approached by EM. Thurifer should maintain an awareness of how much wine remains in the flagon, and if it seems there may not be enough to serve the entire assembly, s/he should signal discreetly to MC.

One Acolyte, after receiving communion, will take up the small paten of gluten-free hosts and stand in front of the altar (next to Thurifer), available to provide a host to Celebrant or Deacon (or Assisting Priest), should a communicant request a gluten-free host.

When they have finished serving the bread and wine, Celebrant, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and EMs will bring bread plates and chalices to the credence table and will communicate one another. Thurifer and Acolyte will bring flagon and small paten to the credence table and return to their seats on the back bench.

After Celebrant has been communicated, s/he will move in front of bench to have the chasuble removed. Acolytes need to be ready for this action. Acolytes remove chasuble and place it back on the communion rail. Thurifer assists Celebrant in putting the cope back on. Acolyte who crossed over to the credence table side during the peace now crosses back over to the pulpit side, reverencing as s/he crosses in front of the altar, and takes his/her seat between EM2 and Crucifer. MC ensures that remaining consecrated bread and wine are covered, then returns to his/her seat. (Ablutions generally occur after the conclusion of the service.)

Post-communion Prayer, Blessing, and Closing Hymn

A communion hymn is sung at 11:15, but not at 9:00. Silence/stillness follows, then all stand at Celebrant’s lead as Deacon (or Assisting Priest), Celebrant, and EM1 move behind the altar, where the post-communion prayer is led and the blessing is given, followed by the closing hymn.

Near the beginning of the third to the last verse of the closing hymn, MC will signal Thurifer to have incense laid on by Celebrant. This is the cue for the Acolytes to remove processional torches from the altar and for Crucifer to get the processional cross. All this happens as soon as Thurifer moves up the steps of the altar toward the Celebrant. Acolytes move from their seats and approach the altar from the sides to get the torches as they did at the Gospel procession, then descend the steps at the elbows. All servers form up for the recessional. The goal is for the entire altar party to be in place facing the altar before the end of the next to the last verse of the closing hymn: Thurifer outside the communion rail on the floor at the crossing; Crucifer flanked by Acolytes at the gap in the communion rail; Celebrant in the center; flanked by EM1 and EM2 to Celebrant’s left; Deacon (or Assisting Priest) and MC to Celebrant’s right.

The Recessional

All servers face the altar. During the musical interlude between the next to the last and the last verses of the hymn, all except Thurifer, Acolytes, and Crucifer will reverence the altar with a profound bow; turn and reverence the assembly with a profound bow; then all recess unhurriedly out of the church. Do not begin the recessional until the singing of the final verse of the hymn begins!

Upon reaching the narthex all servers line up gracefully and turn to face the assembly. Crucifer and Acolytes should line up between the front doors and the baptismal font.

Deacon sings or says the Dismissal and the postlude begins. Torches are blown out. MC, EM1, and EM2 may be asked to carry vestments or service books back to the sacristy.

After the Service

All servers assist in ablutions (elements should be consumed reverently), removing communion vessels, offering plates, etc., from the credence table and with straightening out hymnals on the benches, removing service programs and other items from the chancel. Thurifer puts away incense, coals, and thurible. Leftover coals in water may be poured onto clear ground outside. MC coordinates a short debrief of the service in the office area with all servers.

Solemn Processions

At solemn processions, Thurifer, MC, EM1, EM2, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant enter from the side door behind the pulpit upon the ringing of bells with the cord. MC rings the bell. The order in going out is Thurifer, MC, EM2, EM1, Deacon (Assisting Priest), Celebrant. All come in and find their positions in front of the altar. Deacon places the gospel book on the altar and all reverence the altar with a profound bow, turn, reverence the people in a profound bow. Incense is laid on by Celebrant, then Thurifer takes the boat to the credence and returns to his or her position in front of the altar.

When the bell is rung, Acotlytes (with torches) and Crucifer (with processional cross) who have been waiting in the narthex with the choir proceed up the main aisle toward the altar and stop at the front pew.

The Deacon (if no Deacon— Celebrant or Assisting Priest) bids the procession. When the singing of the first verse of the processional hymn begins, Thurifer leads out and proceeds to his/her right and down the side aisle. Thurifer is followed by Acolytes and Crucifer (torch-cross-torch in single file down the side aisles and three abreast in the center aisle). If Deacon processes with gospel book, he/she follows cross and torches, ahead of choir. Choir follows (not reverencing the altar). After the choir come EM2 and MC (in single file in the side aisles and two abreast in the center aisle), and finally EM1, Assisting Priest if any (or Deacon if not carrying gospel book), and Celebrant (in single file in the side aisles and three abreast in the center aisle).

Solemn processions trace a figure eight (pulpit side aisle, center aisle, Mary side aisle and center aisle again).

When the procession makes its way toward the altar via the center aisle the final time, Crucifer and Acolytes will do what they would normally do and take their usual positions on the side steps of the altar. The choir divides and goes down the two side aisles and up to the loft. EM2 and MC proceed into the chancel and take their normal positions at the side steps of the altar followed by EM1, Deacon (or Assisting Priest), and Celebrant. All servers reverence the altar with a profound bow and turn to face the assembly, without reverencing the people again. The service then continues as normal.

Note: At 11:10, MC goes to the narthex and picks up the intercessions book, returns to the stairwell and gives it to EM1 who carries it in procession. Alternatively, MC may arrange for a greeter to pass the intercessions book off to him/her during the procession, at one of the times when MC passes the doors at the end of the center aisle.

Note: During the final procession up the center aisle toward the altar, servers should be on the proper side of the center aisle so that they end up in their correct positions at the end of the procession.

Stations and Station Collects within a Solemn Procession

When there is a station at an icon in the nave or in the narthex, Thurifer stops at the icon; Crucifer, Acolytes, and choir continue on and stop at an appropriate place so that the choir is past the station. EM1, Deacon, and Celebrant join Thurifer at the station. MC and EM2 remain close to station. Celebrant intones the versicle and the people respond. Celebrant censes the icon and intones the collect. After the collect is concluded, Thurifer proceeds to the front of the procession and continues.

Note: If the station is at the crèche or the Mary icon, the cross and torches will stop at the back of the center aisle (near exit sign under choir loft). If the station is at the Paul icon, Michael icon, or the baptismal font, the cross and torches proceed at least ¾ of the way down the main aisle and stop.

13

Master of Ceremonies (2012)

MASTER OF CEREMONIES

Needs revision to catch up to current realities in 2012.

Role of the MC: To partner primarily with the Celebrant and secondarily with the Deacon to support and where necessary guide the servers so that our liturgy is centered, prayerful, graceful, beautiful and maintains its sense of flow.

Specific ways of functioning and being present include:

Detailed Functions within a Normal Sunday Liturgy

Well in Advance of the Liturgy

On Sunday, Prior to the 10:30 Mass

In the Entryway Before the Liturgy

Reminders about Presence Throughout the Liturgy

In the Procession

At the Sequence Hymn and the Gospel

The Confession and the Peace

The Offertory

During Eucharistic Prayer

During the Administration of Communion

Revesting of Celebrant and Ablutions

Recessional

After the Liturgy

Go to sacristy and meet with servers, thanking them, debriefing them and giving some coaching as appropriate.

Debriefing Questions:

4

Eucharistic Minister (2009)

Eucharistic Minister

EUCHARISTIC MINISTER

Last Revised: 06/03/09 Needs revision to catch up to current realities!!

Welcome to the ministry of Eucharistic Minister (EM) at St. Paul’s. St. Paul’s considers the celebration of the Eucharist central to our life together and we are glad to have you join in this ministry of service.

Overview

Function

A Eucharistic Minister is a lay person authorized to administer the Consecrated Elements at a Celebration of the Holy Eucharist. Eucharistic Ministers act under the direction of a Deacon, if any, or otherwise, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith. *Title III. Canon 4, Sec. 5; 2003.*

At St. Paul’s two EMs are assigned to serve at the 10:30 service and the role of EMs are described as EM1 and EM2, indicating which role the EM plays during the service.

The EM1 represents the laity in the celebration at the altar, so that the three orders of ministry are all present: the Priest Celebrant, the Deacon, and the lay Eucharistic Minister.

The EM1 also participates in the Gospel procession and leads the Prayers of the People.

At the 10:30 service the EM2 is the second Chalice Bearer. But when there is no Deacon, the EM2 will vest in the dalmatic (no stole!), process with the Celebrant and EM1, and sit in the Deacon’s place behind the altar to the Celebrant’s right. While s/he occupies the Deacon’s position during parts of the liturgy, the EM2 in the absence of a Deacon does NOT fulfill the functions of the Deacon (carrying the Gospel book, proclaiming the Gospel, bidding the confession, administering the bread, etc.).

At the 8:00 service only one EM is assigned and has the same duties as the EM1 at the 10:30.

License

The ministry of Eucharistic Minster is a licensed ministry in the Episcopal Church, meaning that in order to function as an EM a person must first be licensed by the Bishop according to current Canons of the Church. (Title III, Canon 4; 2003)

Canon 4 describes the requirements for Licensed Lay Persons:

- “A confirmed communicant in good standing or, in extraordinary circumstances, subject to guidelines established by the Bishop, a communicant in good standing, may be licensed by the Ecclesiastical Authority to serve as Pastoral Leader, Worship Leader, Preacher, Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor or Catechist.”

To be an EM therefore requires that a person be 1) confirmed (except in extraordinary circumstances), 2) a communicant (take Communion at least three times a year), and 3) in good standing (contributing to the life and finances of the congregation).

The clergy person in charge of the congregation requests a license from the Bishop for the person wanting to serve as an EM. The license is valid for three years, and may be renewed based on acceptable performance of the ministry, fulfilling continuing education, and on the request of the clergy. A person licensed in one congregation can serve in another congregation at the invitation of the clergy of that congregation and with the permission of the Bishop. The EM is responsible to the clergy in charge of the congregation in which s/he is serving in all matters relating to the conduct of the services and the dress to be worn.

Training

Prior to the first time a person serves as an EM at St. Paul’s, s/he should arrange to be trained for this ministry. Training sessions for all servers are usually held twice a year; changes in procedure are introduced at these sessions. Individualized training for EMs is coordinated by Mark Taylor; several different people may be asked to provide training and mentorship for new EMs. Training sessions include review of the sequence of the liturgy, the role the EM plays at various times during the service, the mechanics of administering the sacrament, and specific instructions for special services, e.g. Holy Week, Easter Vigil, Christmas, etc.

- One of the roles of the EM1 at the 10:30 Eucharist is to sing the Prayers of the People during certain seasons. The Organist/Choirmaster instructs the EMs in the singing of the Prayers of the People, giving specific advice and guidance about the various forms. Before singing the prayers, please give him a call so he can go over them with you.

- If you don’t feel you want to sing the prayers, contact Gary so you can work out a method for alerting him to arrange for the cantor to sing the prayers on days when you are scheduled to be EM1.

- Before serving as EM1 for the first time, please alert the MC for the appropriate Sunday/Holy Day for a walk through of the role.

Vestments

Albs and cinctures

EMs vest for the service wearing an alb, with or without a cincture depending on the type of alb. (A cincture is always worn with an Anglican double-breasted alb.) The closets in the office area have albs of virtually every size which are available for everyone to use. EMs may wear hooded albs. The cinctures are also for general use. The common albs and cinctures are washed as needed.

- If you choose to buy an alb and/or cincture that you do not wish to have out for general use, please keep it in a hanging bag. You will be responsible for keeping it clean. Please do not bag a vestment that is not your own. They belong to the church and we need them all in circulation.

Liturgical vestments

The EM1 vests as one of the three primary ministers of the service, wearing the tunicle of the seasonal vestment set over an alb. The EM2 wears only an alb and cincture (except in the absence of a Deacon, when s/he wears the dalmatic).

ROTA

The schedule for serving as EM1 and EM2 is included in the ROTA for the Liturgical Ministries at St Paul's, which includes the schedule for acolytes, lectors, EMs, celebrants and preachers. The Rota is sent out from the parish office four times a year and usually covers a three month period.

- The deadline for scheduling is several weeks prior to the beginning of the period, e.g., the deadline for informing the scheduler of your unavailability for the first quarter of the year is in early December. Mark Taylor schedules EMs. Contact him if you know ahead a Sunday you will not be available (mltaylor@seattleu.edu).

Review the Rota as soon as it arrives and note the dates you are scheduled to serve. If you find you are unable to serve at a particular service:

- Find a replacement. The names of the other EMs are on the Rota.

- Notify the parish office of the change.

- Change the master Rota in the sacristy.

- Notify the Master of Ceremonies (MC) for the service of the change.

Before the Liturgy

- Review the propers of the day, including the lessons and psalm. If the scheduled Lector (8:00) or Lectors (10:30) do not appear, the EM1 steps in to read the lessons. At the 8:00 service the EM leads the psalm as well.

NOTE: St. Paul’s now uses the Revised Common Lectionary, not the lectionary printed in *The Book of Common Prayer*. The propers for the following Sunday are listed in the each Sunday bulletin. Call the church office if you need the propers.

- Arrive at the church 30 minutes before a regular Sunday Mass. Arrive 45 minutes before a special feast day or other special service (or earlier, if there is a special rehearsal).

- Review the bulletin for details of the service.

- Wash your hands.

- Check with the MC for any special instructions.

- Vest and go to the sacristy for instructions from the celebrant and prayers before the service.

During the Liturgy

Processions

Position of the EMs

The EM1 should be positioned at the Celebrant’s left, including during entering processions, when seated at the side, or when seated behind the altar. During the retiring processions, the EM1 walks on the Celebrant’s right (when facing the assembly).

Sunday 8:00 procession

The altar party enters the Sanctuary from the side door. The acolyte rings the bell by the door and leads, taking his/her place in front of the altar. The EM goes to the space that would be on the Celebrant’s left and waits for the Celebrant (and the Deacon) to take her/his place in front of the altar. When the altar party lines up in front of the altar, the Celebrant stands in the center, Deacon on his/her right, and the EM on the left. The EM should stand slightly inside, or to the right of, an imaginary line running from the left-hand corner of the altar (see diagram below).

When the altar party has gathered facing the altar, all genuflect (or bow), turn to the congregation, bow to them and proceed to the sedilia (the side bench) or proceed to behind the altar to sit on the benches there, depending on the season.

Celebrant

Deacon

EM1

EM2

MC

Thurifer

Acolyte

Crucifer

#### Sunday 10:30 procession

The altar party proceeds down the aisle, led by the Thurifer, Crucifer, Acolytes, (on some Sundays, the choir), MC and EM2.

Members of the altar party stand facing the altar until the end of the second to the last verse of the processional hymn. (See the section about position in front of the altar.) At that time the Organist begins a short interlude; following the Celebrant’s lead, the altar party genuflects or bows, turns toward the congregation, bows, and then moves to their places. The Celebrant, Deacon, and EM1 take their seats behind the altar, lead by the Deacon. The EM2 sits on the bench behind the pulpit with an Acolyte and the Crucifer (perhaps also with a Preacher). The EM1 (along with the Celebrant and Deacon), should strive to sit in the middle of the seats (stools) behind the altar, not to one side or the other).

#### Solemn Procession

Processions into the church mark Principal Feasts, Major Feasts, and occasional special celebrations. Solemn Processions involve proceeding around the church down the aisle and around the sides, a figure 8.

Members of the altar party, along with the Thurifer, EM2, and MC, enter the Chancel through the side door behind the pulpit and take their places in front of the altar while the Crucifer, Acolytes, and Choir enter from the back of the church.

After genuflecting, turning to the congregation and bowing, incense is laid on and the Deacon (or Celebrant) bids the procession. The Thurifer leads out from the Chancel to take her/his place at the head of the procession. Crucifer, Acolytes, and choir follow; then EM2, MC, followed by EM1, Deacon, and Celebrant.

Easter Liturgy procession

The Easter Vigil is more elaborate and although it has the same general structure the procession is slightly different. EMs, as well as all other servers scheduled for the Vigil, must attend the rehearsal on Holy Saturday.

Places everyone

In front of the altar

After the processional, when the altar party gathers around the altar, the Celebrant stands in the center, Deacon on his/her right, and the EM1 on the left. The EM1 should stand slightly inside, or to the right of, an imaginary line running from the left hand corner of the altar. It is important to maintain comfortable distance from the celebrant so it doesn’t look like the altar party is crowding in on each other. The EM2 around the “elbow” of the altar steps to the left (on the pulpit side), closest to the assembly; an Acolyte is to the EM2’s left, with the Crucifer further left and closest to the altar wall. The EM2 should be facing the MC across the space in front of the altar. All should watch the Celebrant for the signal to genuflect and turn toward the congregation and bow.

- When the altar party is kneeling in front of the altar, for example at the confession, the same spacing is important so as not to look crowded.

Celebrant

Deacon

EM1

EM2

MC

Thurifer

Acolyte

Crucifer

Behind the altar

The EM1 takes the position to the Celebrant’s left.

- The EM1 should be positioned a comfortable distance from the Celebrant when not participating in the action of the Liturgy, so as not to look crowded. The Deacon and the EM1 should both try and maintain equal distance from the Celebrant and should be angled in toward the Celebrant when behind the altar.

Reading the lessons

If the Lector(s) who is (are) scheduled to read does (do) not come forward in a reasonable amount of time the EM1 reads the lessons.

Gospel procession

Usually, the Gospel is proclaimed from the center aisle. The EM1 leaves her/his position behind the altar and goes to the center between the acolytes holding the candles at the same time the Deacon or Assisting Priest leaves his/her position. The Deacon and EM1 leave at the same time, coming around each end of the altar.

The Thurifer stops at the third pew, the Acolytes stop at the fourth pew; the EM1 goes a little further, turns and faces the Deacon or Assisting Priest to receive the book, positioning it securely for the reading. The gospel book, not the EM1, should be positioned between the two torches for the proclamation of the gospel.

- After the Gospel is read, the procession back follows the same order as the procession to the center of the assembly: Thurifer leads, followed by the Acolytes and EM1, then Deacon or Assisting Priest carrying the Gospel book. The EM1 walks slightly behind the Acolytes, pauses very briefly upon stepping up into the chancel (count one-one thousand) to allow the Acolyte to her/his right to move ahead and out of the way, then walks around the Acolyte and takes her/his seat again behind the altar. No reverence of the altar.

Intercessions

Sunday, 8:00

The service at 8:00 uses Rite 1 and the Prayers of the People (Form I) are printed in a black loose-leaf notebook, the same notebook that includes prayers of thanksgiving and intercession written in each Sunday by members of the congregation. The EM1 says the prayer standing at the side. The Celebrant will add a concluding collect after the prayers. If there is a prayer of confession, the EM will lead the Celebrant out in front of the altar for the confession.

Sunday, 10:30

The 10:30 service uses Rite 2 and the Prayers of the People change seasonally. Check the bulletin to know which form is selected for the day. Also, if there is a Baptism, it is the first Sunday in Lent, Thanksgiving, or other days of special observance, other forms of intercessions may be used.

- The Prayers are said during Lent and part of the summer, sung during other seasons.

- In any of the prayers it is appropriate to name the Presiding Bishop and the Diocesan Bishops, and to mention the Virgin Mary and St. Paul with the rest of the saints.

- If the season usually has sung prayers and you would like the cantor to sing the Prayers instead of doing it yourself, arrange with the Organist/Choirmaster prior to the service.

- Our current practice is for the Prayers of the People to be said with the Deacon, Celebrant, and EM1 standing in front of the altar down below the altar steps, facing the Assembly. All other servers are in their places below the side steps of the altar, also facing the Assembly. When the creed is finished, the EM1 leads the Celebrant and Deacon down to these positions; this movement cues the other servers to assume their positions as well. The Altar is NOT reverenced as servers get into position for the Prayers.

If there is to be a Confession of Sin at the conclusion of the Prayers of the People, the Deacon (or Assisting Priest or Celebrant) bids it. All servers turn to the Altar (they have been facing the Assembly) and kneel.

The Prayer of Consecration

Pointing

During the Prayer of Consecration the EM1 points to the text of the prayers and responses for the Celebrant to easily find the place.

Position

During the prayers, the EM1 stands close to the altar, about the same distance back as the other ministers. When the EM1 is pointing, s/he will be closer depending on the position of the altar book.

For times when others are interacting with the Celebrant, for example, when the thurifer comes with the incense or when the acolyte comes with the lavabo bowl, the EM takes a step back away from the altar and allows the action to go on in front of her/him.

However, when the Deacon goes to the side to get the extra chalice or paten, the EM1 steps forward so the Deacon can go behind. When the Deacon comes back with the extra paten, allow space to put the paten on the altar for the Celebrant.

The general guideline is to step back when the Celebrant is the focus of the action, stay forward when the action is focused on the altar.

Bowing

During the Prayer of Consecration and after the Words of Institution concerning the bread, the Celebrant places the bread (which s/he has been holding) back on the altar. The Celebrant, Deacon, and EM1 take a step back and bow profoundly (as do all the other servers). All stand up again, the Celebrant raises the bread, all servres make the sign of the cross. Then the Celebrant again replaces the bread on the altar, the Celebrant, Deacon, and EM1 again step back and bow profoundly (along with the EM2 and all other servers). The same motions are repeated for the chalice. The MC rings the Sanctus Bell three times as the servers bow, cross themselves, and bow again.

ONLY the Celebrant, Deacon, and EM1 bow after the AMEN of the Assembly!

Lord’s Prayer hand position

During the Lord’s Prayer the Celebrant, Deacon and EM1, along with the acolytes and the rest of the altar party, hold their hands in the Orans position, an ancient posture of prayer where hands are raised. Hands are facing forward or up slightly and raised to about shoulder level. Fold hands after the Amen.

EM2 and others in the altar party

During the Prayer of Consecration, the EM2 remains on the side.

At the Communion

The Celebrant and Deacon take Communion and then administer in both kinds to the EMs.

Administering the Host

Administering the Chalice

The Celebrant hands each chalice bearer EM a chalice and purificator. The EMs follow the Priest or Deacon administering the bread on their side and administers the cup.

Blessing at the Altar Rail

The St. Paul’s worship aid also encourages people who do not wish to receive communion to come to the altar rail and receive a blessing, indicating this by crossing their hands and arms over the chests. The Celebrant or Deacon will offer the blessing – this is not a responsibility of the EM. Sometimes, people will return to their seats after being blessed by the Celebrant/Deacon, but other times they will remain at the altar rail when the EM approaches. In this case, the EM may simply say the (shorter) words of administration: “The Blood of Christ, the cup of salvation.”

After completing Communion

When everyone in the congregation has received the communion in both kinds, the EMs bring the chalices and purificators to the credence table. The Deacon and Celebrant will likely have already brought the bread and patens. The MC oversees ablutions, making the decision whether to consume remaining bread and wine during the service or to wait until after the service (if there is too much bread and/or wine to be reverently consumed in a timely manner during the service).

Procession into the world

After the Liturgy

After the dismissal at the 10:30 service, the EMs take the books and vestments to the sacristy and return to the credence table to help with ablutions (if they have not been done during the service).

Ablutions

Other information

Genuflect or bow?

The custom of St. Paul’s includes genuflecting at certain points in the service, e.g., at the entrance and exit.

Singing the Prayers of the People

For anyone who would like to begin singing the prayers or anyone who would like to practice or review singing, Gary said he was available to help. Call him for an appointment. His suggestions:

- Practice singing the prayers with guidance from someone who knows the music.

- Practice singing in the church by yourself.

- Practice in the church with someone who loves you and who will listen and critique you.

Prayers of the People, Form 1

- In Form 1 (p. 383; S106), the introduction sung by the intercessor starts on one chanting note which goes for most of the first line.

- Whatever tempo the intercessor sets for the “Lord, have mercy” in the introduction line is the tempo the congregation will use.

- If there will be a confession or if it is a feast day, omit the section on p. 385 that begins, “For the absolution and remission…”

- Do not sing the section that starts “Defend us…” Since that section doesn’t end with “Let us pray to the Lord”, the congregation doesn’t hear their usual clue to respond.

- Review the music for the last section.

Health considerations

6/1/2026 12

d_-_Eucharistic_Minister.doc

6/1/2026 1

d_-_Eucharistic_Minister.doc

Minister of Ceremonies — Revised (February 2025)

MINISTER OF CEREMONIES

More revision needed in 2025.

Role of the MC: To partner primarily with the Celebrant and secondarily with the Deacon to support and where necessary guide the servers so that our liturgy is centered, prayerful, graceful, beautiful and maintains its sense of flow.

Specific ways of functioning and being present include:

Detailed Functions within a Normal Sunday Liturgy

Well in Advance of the Liturgy

On Sunday, Prior to the 10:30 Mass

In the Entryway Before the Liturgy

Reminders about Presence Throughout the Liturgy

In the Procession

At the Sequence Hymn and the Gospel

The Confession and the Peace

The Offertory

During Eucharistic Prayer

During the Administration of Communion

Revesting of Celebrant and Ablutions

Recessional

After the Liturgy

Go to sacristy and meet with servers, thanking them, debriefing them and giving some coaching as appropriate.

Debriefing Questions:

4

Liturgical Music & Prayers Customary

A Customary for Liturgical Music & Prayers,

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

 

Advent

Christmas/Epiphany

Lent

Easter Season

Season after Pentecost (summer)

Season after Pentecost (fall)

 

a.       Kyrie

b.       Trisagion

c.       Gloria

Collect for Purity

S 91  8:30

S 84  10:45

 

 

 

S 202 8:30

 

 

S 278 (Christmas)

S 277 (Epiphany ­– even years)

S 279 (Epiphany – odd years)

 

S 91  8:30

 

S 102  10:45

 

S 202 8:30

 

 

S 278  10:45

 

-------  8:30

 

 

S 279  10:45

 

S 91    8:30

S 202  8:30

 

S 277  10:45

Psalm

Congregational Plainsong  8:30

 

Plainsong  10:45

Congregational Plainsong  8:30

 

Plainsong  10:45

Congregational Plainsong  8:30 & 10:45

Congregational Plainsong  8:30

 

Plainsong  10:45

----------  8:30
Simplified Anglican (Plainsong if choir is present)  10:45

Congregational Plainsong  8:30

 

Plainsong  10:45

Alleluia (same for both)

Psalm tone

Psalm tone

Tract

Psalm tone

Psalm tone

Psalm tone

Creed (spoken at 8:30)

S 104

S 104

S 104

S 104

S 104

S 104

Prayers of the People (spoken at 8:30)

Form I

S 106

Form I

S 106

Form III

S 107 (Great Litany sung on Lent I, V) 10:45

Form IV

S 108

Form V

S 109
(begins Trinity Sunday)

Form III

S 107

Sanctus

S 114  8:30

 

S 125 10:45

S 114  8:30

 

S 128 (Christmas)

S 124 (Epiphany – even years)

S 131 (Epiphany – odd years)

S 114  8:30

 

S 127 10:45

S 114  8:30

 

S 128 10:45

-------  8:30

 

S 131  10:45
(begins Trinity Sunday)

S114   8:30

 

S 124  10:45

Memorial Acclamation

(none at 8:30)

(B)

S 136

(B)

S 136

(A)

S 133

(D)

S 140

(A)    S 133  (Begins Sunday after Trinity Sunday)

[ (B) S 136 for BVM]

(A)

S 133

Amen

S 142

S 142

S 142

S 142

S 142

S 142

Our Father

S 119    8:30

S 148   10:45

S 119    8:30

S 148   10:45

SPOKEN

S 148   10:45

S 119    8:30

S 148   10:45

SPOKEN

S 148   10:45

S 119    8:30

S 148   10:45

Fraction Anthem

S 158    8:30

S 170   10:45

S 158    8:30

S 170   10:45

S 158    8:30

S 166   10:45

S 158   8:30

S 151 (Easter Day)              
           10:45

S 167  10:45

S 158    8:30

S 155   10:45(Begins Trinity Sunday)

S 158    8:30

S 161   10:45

Postcommunion Prayer

BCP 339 (all years)

BCP 365 (beginning in Advent prior to even-numbered years)  10:45
BCP 366 (beginning in Advent prior to odd-numbered years)    10:45

Blessing

Traditional

Christmas Blessing (short version at 8:30)

Epiphany Blessing*

Lenten Prayer over the People

Easter Blessing (short version at 8:30)

Traditional

Begins Trinity Sunday

Traditional

*Epiphany Day, Epiphany 1, and Epiphany 2 only in Year C. Traditional blessing otherwise.

Ash Wednesday 7AM & 12PM — Two Lay Servers (2026)

Ash Wednesday**** ****(edited February 16, 2026)

7:00am and 12:00pm Services (with two lay servers)

This service requires a Celebrant, an Acolyte/MC, an EM, a Lector, and a pair of oblation bearers (is this true??) and a sacristan (scheduled ahead of time in the quarterly ROTA).

Wooden candlesticks and glass communion vessels are used for the first time on Ash Wednesday (and then for the duration of Lent).

A bowl of ashes is placed on the Altar, along with the gospel book, before the beginning of the service. The ashes will be blessed with holy water and the prayer on *BCP*, 265 – so, a bowl of water with aspergillum need to be on the credence table before the beginning of the service. An additional bowl of (non-blessed) water, some lemon juice, and cloth hand towels need to be on the credence table as well, for the cleaning of hands after the imposition of ashes. We have learned that the best way to help the ashes adhere to foreheads, is for the person imposing ashes to have a little puddle of oil in the bowl containing ashes; dip thumb in oil then into ashes.

Servers enter from the side door behind the pulpit as at 8:00am on Sundays.(order: MC stopping beyond and to the right of the center of the altar, while facing it; EM to the left of center of Altar; and Celebrant to the middle). The Altar and then the Assembly are reverenced with profound bows. The three ministers remain standing in front of the altar and the Celebrant begins the service with the salutation and collect of the day (no opening acclamation), *BCP*, 264. All are seated at benches (EM to the Celebrant’s left on the front bench; MC right side of back bench.)

After the silence and stillness following the sermon, all stand and the Celebrant and EM move in front of the Altar facing the Assembly; the MC is at the foot of the Altar steps on the credence table side. The Celebrant invites the Assembly to the observance of a holy Lent. A period of silent prayer, kneeling, follows. Then the Celebrant and EM mount the steps up to the Altar; the MC brings the bowl of holy water and aspergillum over from the credence table. The bowl/bowls of ashes, which has/have been set on the altar before the service, is/are blessed with the words on *BCP*, 265 and holy water.

Ashes are imposed. The EM imposes ashes on the Celebrant, then the Celebrant on the EM – this happens up at the Altar. The Celebrant then imposes ashes on the MC who has returned the bowl to the credence table and has taken their normal “communion receiving” position. After receiving ashes, the EM washes hands at the credence table and joins the MC seated at benches. The Celebrant imposes ashes on the Assembly at the communion rail in the center. After ashes have been imposed on all, the Celebrant places bowl of ashes on the credence table and washes their hands, assisted by MC. Celebrant and MC take places at the bottom step of the Altar (out front); the MC on the credence table side (prayers of the people position). Psalm 51 and the Litany of Penitence are recited (said) kneeling.

The Peace is exchanged, and the service continues to Holy Communion.

After the post communion prayer, the Celebrant bids and says the prayer over the people. EM and MC assume a profound bow (rather than kneeling).

Ash Wednesday 7PM (2026)

Ash Wednesday (edited February 16, 2026)

7:00pm Service

All servers enter the chancel from the side door behind the pulpit upon the ringing of the bell. Entrance will be similar to the one before the carols on Christmas Eve: Crucifer, Torch, EM2, to places on the left hand side of the Chancel; Thurifer, Torch, and MC to the right; EM1, Assisting Priest, and Celebrant to steps in front of Altar. The thurible with lit charcoal is carried in to the Chancel by the Thurifer and hung on the hook (no incense laid on yet – not until the gospel procession). All servers reverence the Altar with a profound bow, turn and reverence the Assembly with a profound bow. The salutation (no opening acclamation!) and collect for Ash Wednesday (*BCP*, 264) are chanted by the Celebrant from in front of the Altar steps. Candles with wooden candlesticks have been placed on the Altar and lit before the beginning of the service (not carried in). After the collect, all servers go to their usual seats at the side benches.

The Liturgy of the Word proceeds according to the usual 10:30m Sunday customs, with gospel procession and incense (first use of incense in this liturgy).

After the silence and stillness following the sermon, all stand. The Thurifer lays on incense at the credence table and hangs the thurible back on its hook. Led by the EM1, the Assisting Priest and Celebrant move from their benches to the steps in front of the Altar and stand facing the Assembly. All other servers take their “prayers of the people” positions at the bottom of the steps to the Altar on the left and right hand sides. The Celebrant invites the Assembly to the observance of a holy Lent (spoken). A period of silent prayer, kneeling, follows. Two bowls of ashes have been set on the Altar before the beginning of the service. The ashes are blessed with the words on *BCP*, 265, holy water, and incense. The Celebrant, Assisting Priest, and EM1 ascend the steps up to the Altar from the front; the MC brings a bowl of holy water with aspergillum from the credence table (where they were set before the beginning of the service), places the bowl on the Altar, and returns to their usual “prayers of the people” position. The Thurifer brings the charged Thurible and stands to the right of the Assisting Priest facing the Altar. Order of actions: words, holy water, then incense. When the ashes are blessed, the Thurifer returns the thurible to its hook.

Next, ashes are imposed, beginning with EM1, Assisting Priest, and Celebrant up and in front of the Altar. The Celebrant and Assisting Priest bring both bowls of ashes down with them (one each) and impose ashes on the remaining servers in the Chancel, standing in the same positions where they typically receive communion. Then the Assisting Priest and Celebrant impose ashes on the Assembly at the communion rail (taking the sides they normally would serving the bread at communion). After receiving ashes, the other servers take their seats on the benches while the Celebrant and Deacon/Assisting Priest impose ashes on the Assembly; the MC clears the Altar of the bowl of water and aspergillum and the Gospel Book. After ashes have been imposed on all, the Celebrant and Assisting Priest place bowls of ashes on the credence table and wash their hands, assisted by MC and other servers if need be (an additional bowl of water/lemon juice, along with cloth hand towels need to be on the credence table before the beginning of the service). We have learned that the best way to help the ashes adhere to foreheads, is for the person imposing ashes to have a little puddle of oil in the bowl containing ashes; dip thumb in oil then into ashes.

When hands are washed, EM1, Assisting Priest, and Celebrant take their places at the bottom step of the Altar in front; other servers assume their “prayers of the people” positions at the steps to the sides of the Altar. All kneel. Psalm 51 is chanted by servers and Assembly (using simplified Anglican chant and led by organ and choir) and the Litany of Penitence is said, all still kneeling (the Celebrant and Assisting Priest may read alternate petitions). Note: the Celebrant does NOT make the sign of the cross during this unique version of the absolution.

The Peace is exchanged and the service continues to Holy Communion as at 10:30am on Sundays. Glass communion vessels are used at this liturgy and throughout the rest of Lent.

After the postcommunion prayer (and from benches for all servers as is our new custom??), the Assisting Priest (or Celebrant) bids the Prayer over the People. Servers bow profoundly for this prayer rather than kneeling: “Bow down before the Lord,” is what the Assisting Priest or Celebrant bids (many in the Assembly will kneel). The Celebrant says the prayer over the people. (MC needs to make sure a copy of that prayer – from the *Book of Occasional Services* is in the Altar Book before the beginning of the service.) This proper liturgy ends with concluding hymn and full retiring procession with incense, torches, processional cross (the Coptic one with wooden staff), etc.; servers form up as usual.

Baptism Customary — Easter Version (2022)

Customary for Baptisms (from Easter Sunday 2022)

Christian Initiation

During the Presentation and Examination of the Candidate(s), the altar party remains formed up as usual around the bottom step of the altar. After the Presider invites the Presentation of the candidates,

EM2

Asst Priest/PC

Thurifer

Candidate

Family/Sponsor

MC

Presider

EM1

“Let us welcome…” / “We receive you into…”

The Asperges and Litany of Saints follows,

The members of the altar party return to the chancel and form up in normal positions (MC should hand Presider’s book back to Presider when all have returned), while the newly baptized, their families and sponsors return to their seats.

Notes for Baptism Customary — with Mark's Edits (2016)

Notes for Baptism Customary

August 23, 2016

In the week prior to a scheduled baptism, the MC for that service notifies the following servers that there is a baptism and invites them to join the presider for a pre-service walk-through:

MC

Thurifer

EM1

EM2

Deacon

At 9 am baptisms, the walk-through will begin at 8:20 or as soon thereafter as practical. At 11:15 baptisms, the walk-through will begin at 10:30.

At the walkthrough, the presider welcomes the family and godparents and introduces servers.

After the sermon and a moment of silence and stillness, the altar party moves into the Prayers of the People position, and the family/ies come forward. The families will have been instructed to stand in a “choir” position, facing each other rather than with their backs to the congregation.

At the words “let us now pray for this person who is to receive the sacrament of new birth,” the presider steps aside and the Thurifer leads the baptismal party to the fond. The deacon, MC and EM2 follow the baptismal party, inviting other family members in the front pews to join the procession. [Unless the deacon is carrying the paschal candle (?), in which case s/he follows the thurifer before the candidates and families. This could happen occasionally, right, when the paschal candle is up front – not just the Great Vigil? In other words, we would always process the candle to the font if it is not already there?] The presider hands his/her book to the EM1, who uses it to chant the Prayers for the Candidate in procession.

All gather around the font, with the family facing the altar and the presider on the west side of the font. The EM1 continues to hold the presider’s book. The Deacon (or MC) hands the ewer of water to the presider at the words “We thank you father, for the water of Baptism….” The EM2 assists in drying the newly baptized, using towels placed back by the font before the service.

Following the water bath, the MC lights the baptismal candle from the paschal candle and hands it to the presider, who in turn gives it to the family. (OR should the MC give the presider an unlit candle to light from the paschal candle?) [I think it should be the presider. The only challenge will be getting her/him to the paschal candle from her/his spot to the west of the font. But that’s do-able with a little fore thought.]

Aperges follows, and the altar party and baptismal party moves to the front. Family members may return to their pews; the newly baptized, parents, and godparents resume their position in the front of the church.

In full sight of the congregation, the presider anoints the newly baptized, “marked as Christ’s own forever,” and then says the prayer “Heavenly Father, we thank you…joy and wonder in all your works.” [Does this mean the chrism is placed on the credence table, rather than near the font, before the service? I don’t think we want to be carrying the chrism up front after the baptism. If it is to be on the credence table, we need to make sure the sacristan’s manual reflects that.]

The presider then says: “Let us welcome the newly baptized” and all pray: “We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.”

[*NOTE: the above prayer MUST be printed in the bulletin. It comes just before the Peace*.]

The exchange of peace follows, and the service continues as any other Sunday except that the newly baptized is censed during the offertory.

Title Page & Table of Contents (2015)

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

15 Roy Street

Seattle, Washington 98109

Liturgical Customary

Last Revised: 02/20/15

Some sections need serious revision to catch up to current realities!!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

All Inclusive Customary for Serving at the St. Paul’s Altar on Sundays

Master of Ceremonies

Eucharistic Minister

Thurifer

Lectors

Deacon

Assisting Priest

Seasonal Variations at Sunday Services

Special Services

Advent

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

Presentation (with Candlemas Procession)

Ash Wednesday

Palm Sunday

Maundy Thursday

Good Friday

Holy Saturday

Great Vigil and First Mass of Easter

Second Mass of Easter

Pentecost

All Saints

All Souls

Baptisms

Weddings

Funerals

Weekday Masses

Benediction

Stations of the Cross

Liturgical Music

Sacristan Manual