Grace Thompson
Preparing a Catholic altar involves a variety of steps, each with its own significance. The altar is a sacred space, often adorned with a crucifix, candles, and religious statues, reflecting the devotion of those who gather there for prayer and worship. Altar cloths, with their symbolic embroidery, are carefully laid out, reflecting the reverence for the celebration of the Lord's memorial. The colours and materials of these cloths hold significance, with white being a common colour, and linen or hemp being the required fabric. The placement of candles, bread, wine, and sacramentals is also an important aspect of preparing the altar, with specific guidelines for altar servers to follow.
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Altar cloths
Today, there is no uniform way to dress a Catholic altar, and the most appropriate layout will depend on factors such as the size of the altar and the possibilities of each parish. However, the altar should be covered by at least one white altar cloth, and some churches use a frontlet and no frontal, especially if the altar is richly decorated. The cloth should be made of linen, hemp, silk, or cloth of gold or silver, and it should hang over the edges of the altar, within a few inches of the floor. It can be trimmed with lace and embroidered with liturgical symbols or text such as "Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus".
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Crucifix placement
The placement of the crucifix is an important aspect of dressing a Catholic altar. While there are certain guidelines and traditions to follow, the specific arrangement may vary depending on the size of the altar, the availability of space, and the preferences of the parish.
The primary consideration is that the crucifix should be visibly associated with the altar and easily seen by the congregation. It is generally recommended that the crucifix be placed on or near the altar. The General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM) states that "on or close to the altar, there is to be a cross with a figure of Christ crucified." This cross, often referred to as the altar cross, serves as a reminder of Christ's paschal mystery and the central mystery of redemption.
The size of the crucifix is also important. It should be large enough to be visible to the faithful, but not so large that it impedes the visibility of the rites or other elements of the sanctuary. Benedict XVI, even before becoming Pope, advocated for the use of a sizable crucifix upon the altar to establish a liturgical east and focus the attention of the priest and the congregation on the mystery of redemption.
The placement of the crucifix may vary depending on the specific situation and local customs. The crucifix may be placed on the altar itself, either at the middle or on one side, between candlesticks. Alternatively, it can be placed near the altar, immediately behind it, or suspended above it, either from the ceiling or on the wall behind. In some cases, the crucifix may be carried in the entrance procession and then placed next to the altar to serve as the altar cross.
It is worth noting that there are exceptions to placing the crucifix on the altar. If the Crucifixion is the principal part of the altarpiece or picture behind the altar, the regular crucifix may be placed on the altar but is not incensed. Additionally, from the First Vespers of Passion Sunday to the unveiling of the cross on Good Friday, the altar crucifix is covered with a violet veil, and on Good Friday, the veil may be of black material.
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Altar candles
Candles are a ubiquitous presence in Catholic worship services, symbolising Jesus' presence in the worshipping community.
Blessed candles are often used in Catholic altar setups, and these can be placed in brass candle holders. In some cases, candles may be placed on a cake pedestal to raise them up.
Altar servers are responsible for ensuring that candles are lit before the start of Mass and that they are in their proper place. If there are three or more altar servers, two of them will be candle bearers and will line up behind the crucifix bearer.
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Altar servers' attire
Altar servers are expected to dress in a specific manner that reflects the solemnity and dignity of their responsibilities. Here are the guidelines for altar servers' attire:
Vestments and Clothing
Altar servers typically wear vestments, which include an alb and a cincture. It is important to ensure the alb or cassock fits well. The bottom of the alb should reach just above the tops of the shoes, and the sleeves should end at the wrists. Returning the alb and cincture to their proper places after use is important. The colour of the cincture may vary, so checking the calendar to ensure the correct colour is worn is essential. In the Archdiocese of Washington, when vestments are unavailable, altar servers may wear "other appropriate and dignified clothing". This includes school uniforms or other suitable lay attire, such as slacks for both boys and girls, with the option of a skirt for girls.
Hair and Makeup
Hair should be neat and well-groomed. Long hair should be tied back for safety, and bright hair dyes are not permitted. Makeup, if worn, should be minimal, modest, and light.
Jewellery
Jewellery should be kept to a minimum. Necklaces should not be visible, and bracelets are discouraged. Small, non-distracting earrings are permitted, but dangling earrings and large hoop earrings are forbidden.
Behavioural Expectations
Altar servers are expected to be quiet and respectful when on the altar, serving as role models for others. They represent the faithful and participate in the liturgy, worshipping God through their service. It is considered a privilege and a solemn responsibility to serve at the altar, requiring duties to be performed with dignity and reverence.
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Floral decorations
Flowers are used to draw people to the mystery being celebrated and are not ends in themselves. They are used for liturgical celebrations, weddings, and funeral services.
When it comes to the altar itself, there are no strict rules on placement, but it is advised that flowers should not be placed above the tabernacle. The altar should be covered by at least one white altar cloth, and flowers can be placed on top of this.
Fresh flowers can be delivered for holidays, celebrations, and services, and are often available for weekly standing orders.
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Frequently asked questions
The altar should be covered by at least one white altar cloth, with the option of using an antependium, or frontal, which is usually embroidered with liturgical symbols. The altar cloth should be made of absorbent and easily laundered material. A crucifix should be placed upon or near the altar, with candles and a cross.
Altar servers should be neatly and appropriately dressed, with the option of wearing an alb, cassock, or cincture. Girls can wear skirts, and boys can wear slacks.
Altar linens, altar cloths, corporals, purificators, and lavabo towels are used to dress the altar.
