A fixture in churches everywhere, Stauffer's
original work for altar guilds has sold more
than 26,000 copies since 1985. This handbook
helps altar guilds understand their
responsibilities and how best to perform
them. Included are practical instructions
regarding preparation for Holy Communion,
Holy Baptism, marriage, burial,
confirmation, daily prayer services, healing
rites, other occasional services, and
seasons and festivals of the church year.
The book also provides tested suggestions
for organizing an altar guild, devotions for
altar guild meetings, and a helpful glossary.
This edition is revised and expanded
with:
-
new practical illustrations
- an expanded understanding of the
ministry
of the sacristan as one who prepares the
environment for worship
- additional suggestions for seasonal
worship environments
- reflection on the question of cultural
context for worship and anticipates the
needs of the altar guild worshiping with
newly published culture-specific worship
resources
- worship principles from The
Use of the
Means of Grace, the ELCA's guidelines for
sacramental practice
1. Ministry
2. Places
3. Vestments
4. Basics
5. Baptism
6. Eucharist
7. Rites
8. Times
9. Organization
10. Meetings
Appendix A; Outline of the Church Year and Colors
Appendix B: Sample Constitution
Appendix C: Order for Installation
Glossary
For Further Help
Index
