The word Acolyte is derived from the Greek word akolouthos, which means a companion, attendant, or helper. The ministry of the Acolytes has its roots in the Old Testament, where the prophet Samuel is seen assisting Eli, the Levite priest, and Elisha is seen assisting Elijah, the prophet.
Although the specific office of “Acolyte” is not explicitly named in the Scriptures, the concept of a dedicated servant who supports ministers or priests can be gathered from scriptural principles (1 Corinthians 14:40) that emphasize the value of assisting in worship and maintaining order in the assembly of believers.
Being an Acolyte is a service of honor to God and to the Church. Originally, the position of Acolyte was in preparation for the priesthood. Their duties included lighting and extinguishing candles, carrying candles in procession, taking charge of the alms basin (offering bowl), helping the priest prepare for Communion, and generally fetching and carrying.
Being an Acolyte is a service of honor to God and to the Church. Originally, the position of Acolyte was in preparation for the priesthood. Their duties included lighting and extinguishing candles, carrying candles in procession, taking charge of the alms basin (offering bowl), helping the priest prepare for Communion, and generally fetching and carrying.
Today, Acolytes (male and female) are usually seen dressed in robes of red or white, quietly carrying torches, crosses, thuribles, alms basins and cruets. As a sacred and vital part of worship, they blend into the background helping liturgies flow smoothly.
At New Creation Christian Fellowship, the Acolyte Program is designed for boys and girls ages 7 – 16. At age 14, the Acolyte may join the Junior Deacon Program. It is preferred that the Junior Deacons serve as Acolytes prior to training to be Junior Deacons.
The primary focus of the Acolyte program is to introduce and train youth to serve in ministry and provide a practical opportunity for them to learn about the basic tenets of the five-fold ministry. The goal is to accentuate servant leadership. Additionally, serving as an Acolyte helps instill discipline, respect, and teamwork. Acolytes learn to work together with clergy and other members of a ministry team, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The experience of serving in this capacity can encourage them to take on leadership roles in the Church and beyond. Their active participation in worship enriches their own spiritual lives and contributes to the growth of the Church. Therefore, as Acolytes light the candles and carry the cross, they carry forward the light of faith with a rare challenge-to be a beacon of light in a dark world.
Traditionally, six Acolytes are used for liturgical services at New Creation Christian Fellowship. At a minimum, four Acolytes will be used for liturgical services omitting the Torch Bearers.
1. The Bible Bearer
2. Candle Lighters x 2
3. Torch Bearers x 2
3. Processional Cross Bearer
The Procession order is as follows: Deacons, Ministers, Elders, and then the Acolytes in order as followed (Bible Bearer, two Candle lighters, two Torch Bearers, Processional Cross, and any remaining Acolytes with praying hands), and Archbishop Copeland and his Armor Bearer.
Whether a young person, an adult, or one who oversees the training of acolytes, it is a privilege to serve at God’s altar.”
At New Creation Christian Fellowship, the Acolyte Program is designed for boys and girls ages 7 – 16. At age 14, the Acolyte may join the Junior Deacon Program. It is preferred that the Junior Deacons serve as Acolytes prior to training to be Junior Deacons.
The primary focus of the Acolyte program is to introduce and train youth to serve in ministry and provide a practical opportunity for them to learn about the basic tenets of the five-fold ministry. The goal is to accentuate servant leadership. Additionally, serving as an Acolyte helps instill discipline, respect, and teamwork. Acolytes learn to work together with clergy and other members of a ministry team, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. The experience of serving in this capacity can encourage them to take on leadership roles in the Church and beyond. Their active participation in worship enriches their own spiritual lives and contributes to the growth of the Church. Therefore, as Acolytes light the candles and carry the cross, they carry forward the light of faith with a rare challenge-to be a beacon of light in a dark world.
Traditionally, six Acolytes are used for liturgical services at New Creation Christian Fellowship. At a minimum, four Acolytes will be used for liturgical services omitting the Torch Bearers.
1. The Bible Bearer
2. Candle Lighters x 2
3. Torch Bearers x 2
3. Processional Cross Bearer
The Procession order is as follows: Deacons, Ministers, Elders, and then the Acolytes in order as followed (Bible Bearer, two Candle lighters, two Torch Bearers, Processional Cross, and any remaining Acolytes with praying hands), and Archbishop Copeland and his Armor Bearer.
Whether a young person, an adult, or one who oversees the training of acolytes, it is a privilege to serve at God’s altar.”
