"Where there is a church, there is an altar server". This is especially true in Kuwait, which was present at masses as early as the year 1954 during the time of the first Vicar Apostolic Of Kuwait. The following explains more about Altarsevers in the Roman Catholic Church and their position in the Hierarchy. Who is an Altarserver ?
An altar server is a lay assistant to a member of the clergy during a religious service.
The word “altarboy” or “altarserver” or more officially “acolyte” is derived from the Greek word akolouthos, which means 'attendant'. The term altar server, which was also in use, has almost completely replaced altar boy, because, with the permission of the diocesan bishop, girls may now be allowed to serve in this capacity; besides, an increasing number of adults serve at the altar. Altar servers perform most of the functions of the former “Minor Order" of ordained clerics (acolytes).
What is our Position in the Roman Catholic Hierarchy ?
Pope -> Cardinals -> Archbishops and Bishops -> Priests -> Deacons -> Eucharistic Ministers -> Altarservers
Why are we called a Sodality ?
"so – dal – i - ty "
“ A sodality is defined as an association or society in the Roman Catholic Church for lay people, for a religious purpose. “ Altar servers cannot form a community or organization. These have entirely different meanings. The term should come into immediate effect in Kuwait and the Cathedral’s altar servers should rename themselves as the ‘Altarservers Sodality’ of the Vicariate.
Who is our Patron Saint ?
St. John Berchmans
The patron saint of altarboys all over the world. Why are we called Acolytes ?
The Order of Acolyte was conferred on seminarians at a minor ordination. After the reforms of the Minor Orders in 1972, the Acolyte survived but became one of two lay ministries (along with that of lector) instead of an Order. In the post-Vatican II Church, an acolyte has all the responsibilities of an altar server except a few additional ones. The acolyte can also act as a Eucharistic Minister and can celebrate Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. While acolytes did not receive the sacrament of Holy Orders, they were considered part of the clergy, and were a required step on the way to Holy Orders. Candidates for the priesthood must still receive the "ministries" of lector and acolyte before ordination.
To know More about us and our sodality download the Presentation Titled Re-orientation to the Altar From Here :