Rules and Etiquette of the Holy Altar For Saint John Acolytes (Altar Boys)

1. RESPECT & REVERENCE for the Church and Altar area. Remember, you are in a HOLY place - treat it that way! It is as an honor to serve your Parish as an Altar Boy (Acolyte), not a bothersome chore.
2. BE ON TIME. Please try to arrive five to ten (5 - 10) minutes before the start of any Church Service.
3. When you vest, ask the Priest to bless your belt before putting it on.
4. When offering or receiving something from the Priest, always kiss his right hand.
5. Accept your assignment without complaint.
6. The Church Service dress code: clean shirt, tie, and dress shoes. NO JEANS or SNEAKERS.
7. That you know that Creed by heart.
8. That you pay attention to the service.
9. No earrings or other piercings are allowed to remain in place while someone serves in the altar.
10. No unnecessary talking.
11. No eating or drinking permitted in the Altar. NO GUM.
12. No pushing, shoving, fighting or clowning around is allowed.
13. Walking behind the Altar should be kept to a minimum.
14. All Altar Boys (Acolytes) should stand at the Altar Table or in front of the chairs.
15. Before leaving the Altar area, ask the Priest for permission and his blessing.
16. If you must be absent, you must please call the captain of your group a few days ahead of time so a replacement can be found.
17. All Altar Boys (Acolytes) must register and participate in Sunday Church School.
18. Altar Boy (Acolytes) meetings will be held a minimum of three times a year. All Altar Boys must attend the scheduled meetings. Times and dates to be announced in the Sunday bulletin as well as phones calls by each group Captain.

THESE RULES MUST BE OBSERVED BY ALL ACOLYTES (Altar Boys)

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