Sacristans assist the Verger with the proximate preparations for the celebration of the Sacred Liturgy. Typical responsibilities of the sacristan include: heating/cooling/ventilation & lighting of the sacred space; dressing and decoration of the altar, as well as the various shrines and chapels; laying out worship aids, bulletins, lectionary, missals & prayers; preparing the thurible & incense, cross & candles, sacred vessels, vestments & linens; providing bread, wine & water, as well as other texts and artifacts for the celebration of the liturgy; carefully lighting the lamps & candles; clean up and storage of articles; the proper care of altar linens, vestments, and indeed, the entire ecclesiastical fabric!
Cleaners, too, in close collaboration with the Facilities Manager, assist the Verger and sacristans in overseeing the meticulous care of the church in general.
During the Most Holy Days of Christmastide, Passiontide & The Sacred Paschal Triduum, additional volunteers are enlisted to assist the Verger and sacristans with decorating and sprucing up the sanctuary.
For more information, please contact:
Mr. Michael Van Allen,
Verger & Head Sacristan
[email protected]
(518) 828-1334 x 104