The St. Andrew Society is the international order of laypersons who serve the Church as acolytes and ushers.  At Bethany, acolytes serve as volunteer members of this ancient “order” (i.e. position) in the church rather than as a confirmation assignment. While most students become acolytes during confirmation, many students continue to serve as acolytes during high school.  High School acolytes are considered Senior Acolytes and serve at the services of their choice and take a leadership role in festival services.

St. Andrew was the first apostle to be called by Jesus when our Lord began his earthly ministry.  Andrew quickly went to tell his brother of his contact with the Messiah, and, in so doing, brought his brother to Jesus (John 1:38-41).  Though Andrew served quietly, his faithfulness set an important example for the Church.  At the feeding of the 5000, St. Andrew was the one who brought the loaves and fish that Jesus used to feed the crowd (John 6:1-15).  He was also one of the first missionaries, bringing a group of Greeks to Jesus (John 12:20-22).  After Jesus’ Ascension, he took the Gospel to Macedonia, where he was martyred for the faith.

Acolytes follow in St. Andrew’s example of quiet, faithful service.  By carrying the cross, assisting with the Lord’s Supper, carrying the Bible for processions, incensing the altar, and lighting candles, we point people to Christ, as he comes to us in Word and Sacrament in the Divine Service.  Our actions say, “Here is Christ!” and call on others to follow him – just as Andrew did. 

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. You are responsible for serving when scheduled.  Acolyte schedules are mailed out every few months.  Monthly schedules are also placed in Connections.  Reminders about who is serving next week are also in News and Notes.  If an acolyte cannot serve when scheduled, he or she should find a sub and then notify the office who will be filling in.  In emergency situations, parents should leave a message on the Cantor’s voice mail (x.227) so that he will be aware of the need to recruit a last-minute sub. 

2. All St. Andrew Society members are expected to serve whenever there is an emergency need at a service that they are already attending. Unless there is mitigating circumstance, all the acolytes should model the example of Andrew and be willing to drop their nets and follow Jesus.

3. Be on time!  Acolytes should be vested 10 minutes prior to the service so that they can receive any special instructions and then pray with the pastors and cantor before the service.

4. Serve with dignity.  Wear dress shoes. Model worship for the congregation by participating fully in the service.  Sing the hymns.  Don’t chew gum.  Etc.