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December 1, 2013. Acolyte Workshop. It is important not only to know what to do, but to understand why. Our church is rich in scripture, history, tradition, and symbolism. Privilege. Worship Nourishment Opportunity to lead Serve to others Enrichment. What does an acolyte do?.
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December 1, 2013 Acolyte Workshop It is important not only to know what to do, but to understand why. Our church is rich in scripture, history, tradition, and symbolism.
Privilege • Worship • Nourishment • Opportunity to lead • Serve to others • Enrichment
What does an acolyte do? An acolyte does more than just light the candles. An acolyte is a worship leader involved in : • Preparation • Leadership • Assistance
Who can be an acolyte? • Any member of the assembly • Youth or adult • Male or female • Any age (as long as you can reach the candles on the altar and light them)
Why are candles used in worship? Light is symbolic of: God God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. 1 John 1:5b God’s impact on us I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life. John 8:12 The mission to the world. I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth. Acts 13:47
Old Testament Worship • Believers of the O.T. lived under the LAW. • They waited for God’s promise of a Savior. Holy of Holies Holy Place Portico
New Testament Worship • Believers of the N.T. live under the GOSPEL. • God’s promise has been fulfilled in Jesus. Sanctuary Nave Narthex
Reverence Respect for God in His sanctuary, shown by: • A bow from the waist when entering the altar area – lighting candles, accepting offering, assisting in communion or baptism • A bow when leaving the altar • Worshipping (singing, hearing the Word, praying, praising) • Focus on the tasks of leadership
Alb and Cincture • The oldest and most basic vestment • Symbolic of the righteousness with which Christ has clothed us
Candlelight Tool • Made of precious metals • Know how is works • Know when to light and extinguish the candles • Know which candles to light
Holy Communion Worship • Gathering • Word • Meal • Sending
Special Tasks • Advent Wreath • Imposition of Ashes • Palm Sunday Procession • Tenebrae Service • Easter • Baptism • Funerals
Opportunity to Practice • What does the candle wick look like? • Practice reverence bowing. • Practice lighting candles. • Practice receiving the offering. • Practice extinguishing candles. • Practice lighting the Advent wreath. • Locate the cabinet for robes and the tool.