The server is a member of the assembly who assists the priest and deacon during the Mass and other liturgical ceremonies so that the liturgy can be conducted with grace and reverence. Servers should be active and full participants in the celebration with the understanding that they are first and foremost members of the assembly. The server expresses this by singing, praying and keeping silence along with the rest of the assembly.

Within the liturgy, servers participate in the procession. They hold the book for the priest celebrant when he is not at the altar, carry the incense and censer, assist the priest when he receives the gifts from the people, aid in the washing of hands by the priest, and provide additional assistance as necessary. In the absence of a sacristan, the servers may prepare the altar and sacred vessels before Mass. The number of servers varies according to the nature of the celebration.

Ideally, servers are fully initiated Catholics. Altar servers must have received the Sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist; youths who have not been confirmed may serve. Servers normally receive the Eucharist whenever they participate in the liturgy. 

Servers are expected to be appropriately prepared, committed to giving their time and talent to their parish community, and willing to serve God’s people. They should be able to understand the Eucharistic celebration and the other sacred rites.