Sacristan

In parish life, one of the roles rarely seen by parishioners is that of a Sacristan. It is a "behind-the-scenes" position, but it is an essential service in the parish as it helps priests focus on the ministerial aspect of their priesthood. 

The General Instruction of the Roman Missal explains, "The following also exercises a liturgical function:  the sacristan, who carefully arranges the liturgical books, the vestments, and other things necessary to celebrate the Mass" (No. 105). The Sacristan's role is further spelled out in a book entitled Caeremoniale Episcoporum (Ceremonial of Bishops): "The holy preparations in which Sacristans are entrusted are the basic framework for the beautiful and sacred objects that are used and carried out before, during, and after the Mass. It's a serious job one must undertake with care and wisdom" (#37).
 

In the Sacristy

The Sacristy is the secure area of the church, which serves as a holding room for the sacred items used in the Holy Mass and where the clergy prepare and vest for Mass. Many of the Sacristan's duties are related to caring for the Sacristy (hence the name Sacristan) and the sacred items in the Sacristy.

The Sacristan usually arrives about thirty minutes before Mass begins. The Sacristan's chores should be done prayerfully, keeping the Sacristy a neat, quiet, and meditative place. They make sure the priest has the necessary items for the altar. This includes the chalice, ciboria, cruets, linens, oils, crosses, candles, and celebration bells. The books for the Mass are prepared and put in their proper places in the sanctuary, including the Roman Missal, the Lectionary, the prayers of the faithful, and presider notebooks. All must be kept in pristine condition. The Sacristan also ensures all lamps and candles have sufficient light (oil) to last during the celebration of the Mass. The Sacristan ensures acceptable fresh hosts and the proper amount of authorized wine for communion. Once Mass has ended, the Sacristan clears the altar, extinguishes the candles, cleans, and then puts away the sacred items. 

All Saints need Sacristan Volunteers. Please contact Lupe Padilla, Pastoral Assistant, for more information.