St. John's, Norwood: Altar Guild

Introduction

The Altar Guild is composed of men and women who serve as custodians and caretakers of the vessels and furnishings used in all worship services, they prepare and arrange the objects to be used in each worship service, whether held in church or chapel. They also maintain, repair and replace these items as needed. The items under their care include vessels, hangings, linens and candles.

Membership

The Rector calls each new member to serve in a formal induction ceremony. An annual meeting and luncheon is held in June, and meetings are convened early in fall and spring to prepare for each major liturgical season.

Members are required to serve a minimum of sixteen times each year, which is equivalent to roughly 40 hours a year. Three-month sign up schedules ("rota") are distributed so members can mark down the times when they are able to contribute time, and the leadership uses these sheets to develop a final schedule of member assignments.

Training

"Learning by doing" describes the Altar Guild's training strategy. New members are paired with experienced members while they master the process of maintaining and preparing sacred objects for worship. Teens over the age of twelve are invited to work with experienced members so they can learn more about the worship experience.

The Guidebooks for all services are essential tools for members. Developed over the years by knowledgeable members, these books are very complete. Every member consults them to ensure that no task is forgotten!

St. John's Episcopal Church, Norwood Parish

Building Community at the Crossroads of Faith and Life

St. John's Altar Guild

Introduction

Membership

Training