Читать книгу How to Motivate, Train and Nurture Acolytes - Robert Ormston Eaton - Страница 6

The acolyte ministry is one of service. The theology and significance of this ministry should be reinforced through all phases of training. Acolytes of all ages and experience levels will benefit by constant encouragement about the value of their personal ministry in the Lord's service. Acolytes, along with other lay ministers in the Episcopal Church, are responsible for carrying out their ministry according to the questions and answers found in the Catechism on page 855 in the BCP.

Enthusiastic participation in the acolyte group and committed involvement to the acolyte ministry should be a primary goal of the program since it is key to the program's success. Efforts to establish that enthusiastic spirit should begin when a boy, girl, man, or woman first expresses interest in serving.

Clergy and acolyte directors often wonder about the best way to involve a new acolyte. Leaders should be clear that a regular training program, which will provide a level of comfort and security, will be part of the ministry. Then the acolyte can be introduced to service in whatever way is appropriate for your situation.

Example: a new acolyte might be assigned a simple task and shepherded by an experienced peer, or could be scheduled for several sequential Sundays as a vested observer with an advanced acolyte as a mentor.

However you decide to encourage initial participation, it should be understood as a first step, leading to training that will enable the new acolyte to feel confident and secure in the work and service that lies ahead.