At every Mass, sacristans prepare the altar for our recounting of the Last Supper.  With all liturgical materials readied with care, the liturgy flows freely toward the Eucharist.  

"The sacristan is a lay person who 'diligently arranges the liturgical books, the vestments, and other things that are necessary for the celebration of Mass' (GIRM, no. 105a). Working from the sacristy, he or she should be well-trained in the complexities of the liturgical actions, as well as those of special Masses or those of greater solemnity, so as to make appropriate provisions" (USCCB Committee on Divine Worship Newsletter, January 2015).  

• Ready the worship space
• Prepare the altar and gifts
• Assist visiting deacons or priests
• Assist the servers, if needed
• Assist the priest in finding ministers for no-shows

During the Liturgy
As members of the assembly, they have a unique opportunity to model the true meaning of “full, active and conscious participation"(In the Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, from the Second Vatican Council CSL #14). When they listen with attention, sing with enthusiasm and pray from their hearts, they encourage others to do the same.

After the Liturgy
Sacristans should plan to stay 15 minutes after Mass to:

• Care for the vessels
• Reset the Sanctuary for the next Sacristan

• Sacristans are trained by the pastor as needed.
• Full Parish Sacristan Guide
• Diocesan Guidelines for Sacred Vessels

Liturgical ministers are scheduled via Ministry Scheduler Pro (MSP).  Sacristans typically serve on a fixed rotation with other sacristans at their preferred Mass and fill in at other Masses when subs are needed.  

If you are interested in serving as a sacristan, click here for easy ways to sign up. Or contact:

Lesley Kirzeder
Liturgy Commission Member
574-282-2308
liturgy@stasb.org