Altar Boys and Myrrh-Bearers
The Altar Boys ministry is designed for young men between the ages of 7-18, who wish to help the priest during the Divine Liturgy on Sundays, along with other sacred services during major Feast days. It requires a great deal of dedication on behalf of both the young men, as well as from their parents who transport them to church on Sundays. This is a most sacred ministry of the church. Acolytes are asked to arrive properly dressed (i.e. a white or light colored dress shirt, a tie, dress pants, and black dress shoes). The Divine Liturgy begins at 10 am. Acolytes should prepare themselves to receive Holy Communion as often as possible. As Christians we prepare by fasting on the appropriate days (i.e. Wednesdays and Fridays and/or throughout other festal periods) as well as limiting our thoughts, words, and actions to only those things that glorify God. We also fast completely on Sunday morning (boys under ten years of age may have some juice), not eating or drinking anything until we receive Holy Communion. Serving in the Holy Sanctuary is a privilege. These young men have shown responsibility and dedication to the Lord and His Church.
The Myrrh-Bearers Ministry invites young girls to participate more fully in the life of the Church by serving during the Divine Liturgy and other services. Named after the faithful women who followed Christ and were first to witness the Resurrection, this ministry emphasizes reverence, humility, and love for worship.
Girls in the Myrrh-Bearers Ministry assist with processions and other liturgical responsibilities, learning firsthand the beauty, meaning, and order of Orthodox worship.
