Altar Guilds in the Episcopal Church developed in the late nineteenth century. In the early days of the Church of England, altar care was the task of clerics. Many years later, laymen and eventually women were included in this ministry.

Altar guilds today are people who are called to serve God by preparing and tending the places where we worship, enabling the liturgy. (“Liturgy” literally means, “the work of the people.”) The altar guild has a special role as the priest’s liturgical partner by making the worship life of the parish run smoothly. Selection of members is a thoughtful process and by invitation of the rector and guild. The work is an offering of time and talents. It is a ministry of love undertaken in the name of Christ.

St. Luke’s Altar Guild welcomes new members. Faithful teams work according to a well-organized schedule, Their primary responsibilities revolve around the weekly Eucharistic services, as well as special liturgical events such as weddings, funerals, and decorating of the church at Christmas, Easter and other special occasions.

Jeannette Armstrong serves as Chairwoman.

Duties

Eucharist

Putting out the necessary vessels: wine, water, chalices
Placing the communion wafers and the priest’s wafer on the paten
Assembling the Eucharistic ensemble
After the service, collecting all the vessels, linens, candles, and other items and returning them to the sacristy.

Linens

Placing the appropriate linens on the altars
Putting linens on the tables at the rear of the sanctuary and the chapel
Placing linens on the credence tables
Putting corporals on the altars
Laundering used linens
Responsibilities
Replacing the candle over the ambry
Replacing individual votive candles
Placing the candles in the narthex
Filling the pace and altar candles with oil
Ordering supplies as needed
Light dusting and sweeping in the sanctuary and chapel

Serving in the Altar Guild is both a privilege and a pleasure. If you would like to become a part of this group, please speak to Jeannette Armstrong or the rector.