I WELCOME the appearance of a new edition of the hand book
of the archconfraternity of Saint Stephen for Altar Servers. I thank
and congratulate its present compiler and wish every blessing to its
readers.
To serve at the altar, as to sing in the choir, is next to
the priesthood the highest priviledge which a human can enjoy. He
represents the faithful and takes a most intimate part in the rich
treasures of the church's liturgy and ceremonial. Those sacred
ceremonies should be carried out with devotion, dignity and attention
to detail.
I would say, there fore to those who use this manual:
Remember that whether you hold the office of Master of Ceremonies, or
the more humble one of Torch Bearer, that you are in the service of the
King of Kings and are always on parade. The success and the rythm of a
parade is secured by the attention given by each member to the minutest
detail. So pay the greatest detail to every small detail.
But the value of your service will be measured and indeed
enhanced by your own sanctity and by the personal love you have for our
Blessed Lord and devotion to His sacred mysteries. This manual will
help you to secure this.
May Almighty God and Saint Stephen bless all the members of
the Archconfraternity.
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BERNARD CARDINAL GRIFFEN, |
Archbishop of Westminster.
|