Acolytes

Acolyte is a person who assists in religious services, particularly within Christian liturgy. The term derives from the Latin acolyta and the Greek akolouthetes, meaning "one who follows" or "attendant." Acolytes are typically lay participants who support the officiant during worship, and the role is found in diverse Christian traditions, including the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the Anglican Communion, and various Protestant communities. While the role is often associated with youth, it is open to adults in many churches, and practices regarding gender eligibility vary by denomination.

Duties commonly include lighting candles and torches, bearing or processing with the cross, presenting sacred texts or vessels, preparing the altar and linens, and assisting with incense or processions. Acolytes may also assist the celebrant by holding the book of readings, guiding the congregation in processions, and helping with the distribution of communion where such liturgical approval exists.

In Catholic and some Anglican and Lutheran churches, acolytes are formally recognized as liturgical ministers, though the precise configuration—whether as an unofficial altar server or as an instituted ministry—differs by rite and region. In the Orthodox tradition, similar attendants are integral to the altar service. Training is typically provided by local parishes or dioceses, and selection is often done by clergy or pastoral leaders.

The role emphasizes reverence, attentiveness, and service to the liturgy. As church practices evolve, participation by women and men in acolyte or altar-server roles remains a common point of variation across denominations.