Altar Server
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF THE ALTAR SERVERS AT MASS?
Altar Servers are laymen and women, girls and boys, who are designated to assist the priest and the deacon at Mass. Ordinarily; they are responsible for the cross, the candles, the incense, and the censer. They hold the book for the priest at the chair, they assist the priest during the preparation of the gifts, and they wash the hands of the priest. In general, they assist the priest and deacon when necessary. (General Instruction of the Roman Missal - GIRM #100) Altar Servers participate not only in their distinctive ministerial functions but also together with the worshiping Assembly by singing, listening, responding and through their posture and gestures.
WHAT IS APPROPRIATE ATTIRE FOR ALTAR SERVERS?
In the dioceses of the United States of America, altar servers and other lay ministers may wear the alb, cassock and surplice, or other suitable vesture or other appropriate or dignified clothing. All servers should wear the same liturgical vesture.