Hi and welcome to St John's Altar Servers!!!!
My name is Karoly (pronounced Karoy) and I run the Altar Server group
here at St John's. I really look forward to having loads of fun with
you over the next few years.
Here are a few important things to remember:
We are implementing a new rank system based on the level of training,
experience, dedication and commitment of each Altar Server. The rank
system is made up of the following levels:
RANK SYSTEM
Trainee Altar Servers:
These are new Altar Servers that have recently joined, and that have no
prior experience. They will go through a period of induction and training
over three to six months and will be able to perform the basic tasks of
an Altar Server. After having been trained, you will be asked to serve
at weekend masses, but with the assistance of a senior server.
Junior Altar Server:
Once having completed the previous level of training, and having shown
the appropriate dedication, learning and commitment, the Altar Server
will be appointed as Junior Altar Server. You will receive a crucifix
which you will wear while serving. At this level, you will be asked to
serve at weekend masses without assistance - and may even be asked to
serve alone. You will generally remain at this level for about a year.
Should you show exceptional qualities, and dedication, this period may
be shortened.
Senior Altar Server:
When appointed as a Senior Altar Server, you will be able to conduct
High Mass activities - these include (amongst others):
When appointed, Senior altar servers will be given a medal which they
will wear with their cross.
Head Altar Servers:
There will be two head Altar Servers - namely a Head boy Altar Server,
and a Head girl Altar Server. These servers are in charge of the servers
and will help the coordinator with the administrative and training duties
of the servers. They will have a good understanding of the all aspects of
Serving on the Altar. They will be expected to play a leadership role and
will set an example to all the Altar Servers. Head Altar Servers will
have their own special crosses indicative of their role in the team.
TEAMS
Each altar server will be put into a team, and each team will be
responsible to serve on any particular day as shown on the serving
schedule. A points system will be implemented to track how each team,
and each Altar Server is performing in their task. At the end of the
year, the top two teams will be treated to a special activity (such
as a day at Gold Reef City) to reward them for their special service
to the Church.
TRAINING
All the current and new Altar Servers will need to attend training on:
Once the training is complete, I will then place all the current
servers into their new teams and will allocate ranks according to
an assessment made at the training sessions. It is very important
that all servers (current and new) attend this training.
ACTIVITIES
We will also be doing a number of activities outside and beyond the
standard duties of Altar Serving. Spirit building and fun activities
are key to the success of the team. With this in mind, I have already
booked for a weekend away at Bosco Youth Pastoral Centre to take place
on the weekend of 22 February 2004. The cost of the weekend will be
confirmed closer to the time. As Bosco needs final confirmation by
the end of this year, could you please indicate whether you will
attend as soon as possible. It's going to be fun!!!!
CONTACT DETAILS
Please feel free to contact me any time should you or your parents have any questions.
Telephone: 082 570 4465 or 679 4690 (evenings only)
e-mail: karolyk@mweb.co.za
Regards,
Karoly
