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What An Altar Guild Should Know
“This handbook was written to give information, guidance, and inspiration to altar guilds….To organize an altar guild is not difficult, but to teach those who have become members of the guild what they should know is not so easy. That is why a book on what an altar guild should know is desirable. It should help new members learn the basic things that are required of them, and it should serve to improve the work of experienced members and help them assist those who are just beginning. For all members of the guild, new and old, as well as for pastors, it should be helpful as a constant handbook for ready reference and guidance.”
Unknown Binding
First published December 1, 1964
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
July 16, 2021
I initially was drawn to this book because I was missing my Gram. She was the President of the Altar Guild at my childhood church and I spent many hours with her as she and my Gramp, along with various other Guild members, cared for and prepared the church for worship. I cannot think of an Altar Guild without her coming to mind.
The content of the book was really interesting to me. There were some aspects -- particulars that dealt with the selection of and placement of the various pieces that get placed on the altar, for example -- that were entirely unknown to me prior to reading this book, but much of it was an excellent refresher on my Confirmation instruction. I was especially intrigued by the sections on the church year history and formation, as well as the explanation of various symbols we often see used in the church.
While some of the language and content feels slightly dated, I also respect the deep history of the church and the details attributed to and surrounding it, so I am hesitant to say that it requires an update. Mainly, I found myself a bit saddened that we don't seem to carry this same reverence and respect today, when I see how people move around the altar as they serve. While culture and secular customs change, our awe in the presence of God and all things meant for His holy presence should not diminish, and yet not only do we fail to take time to learn the proper terminology for His house and the items dedicated toward His worship, but I notice many approach the altar without a bow of reverence, casually attired and acting as if we aren't in the Temple of the Most High, communing at His High Feast at the time when the veil between this world and the next is the thinnest. (Would we show up to a meeting with the leader of another country in shorts, tank top and flipflops? I know I wouldn't.) I do wish the same deep respect were still being instilled in us as I was taught from my earliest memories. I simply cannot approach His table without bowing in humble acknowledgment of who He is and appropriately dressed to greet the King of Kings. But maybe I'm just old-fashioned that way...
This book is beneficial for someone considering volunteering for their Altar Guild, of course, but there is plenty of value for the layperson as well. If you are curious about the history and meaning behind all the parts and pieces that make up an LCMS church (I am not certain how much would apply beyond the LCMS, as I was born and raised LCMS, and I am not at all familiar with other denominations), this is an excellent resource, with explanation of the history and meaning (where applicable) of what you might see inside a church building, and what its purpose is, as well as plenty of illustrations for visual clarification (the only reason I went with 4 stars instead of 5 was that I feel as though some of the illustrations could be updated beyond pencil drawings). In a properly appointed church building, nothing is extraneous and all should point toward the LORD.
The content of the book was really interesting to me. There were some aspects -- particulars that dealt with the selection of and placement of the various pieces that get placed on the altar, for example -- that were entirely unknown to me prior to reading this book, but much of it was an excellent refresher on my Confirmation instruction. I was especially intrigued by the sections on the church year history and formation, as well as the explanation of various symbols we often see used in the church.
While some of the language and content feels slightly dated, I also respect the deep history of the church and the details attributed to and surrounding it, so I am hesitant to say that it requires an update. Mainly, I found myself a bit saddened that we don't seem to carry this same reverence and respect today, when I see how people move around the altar as they serve. While culture and secular customs change, our awe in the presence of God and all things meant for His holy presence should not diminish, and yet not only do we fail to take time to learn the proper terminology for His house and the items dedicated toward His worship, but I notice many approach the altar without a bow of reverence, casually attired and acting as if we aren't in the Temple of the Most High, communing at His High Feast at the time when the veil between this world and the next is the thinnest. (Would we show up to a meeting with the leader of another country in shorts, tank top and flipflops? I know I wouldn't.) I do wish the same deep respect were still being instilled in us as I was taught from my earliest memories. I simply cannot approach His table without bowing in humble acknowledgment of who He is and appropriately dressed to greet the King of Kings. But maybe I'm just old-fashioned that way...
This book is beneficial for someone considering volunteering for their Altar Guild, of course, but there is plenty of value for the layperson as well. If you are curious about the history and meaning behind all the parts and pieces that make up an LCMS church (I am not certain how much would apply beyond the LCMS, as I was born and raised LCMS, and I am not at all familiar with other denominations), this is an excellent resource, with explanation of the history and meaning (where applicable) of what you might see inside a church building, and what its purpose is, as well as plenty of illustrations for visual clarification (the only reason I went with 4 stars instead of 5 was that I feel as though some of the illustrations could be updated beyond pencil drawings). In a properly appointed church building, nothing is extraneous and all should point toward the LORD.
July 12, 2022
An excellent resource! I find it could use a second edition perhaps with an editors foreword and afterword with maybe an appendix of updated issues that come up with 21st century altar guilds and their pastors.
Maybe a Q and A:
Why does pastor consume the elements after communion?
Why does pastor kneel all the time?
Why does pastor cross himself during such and such?
If you’re looking for the latter, check out “Why?” by Burnell Eckhardt.
Maybe a Q and A:
Why does pastor consume the elements after communion?
Why does pastor kneel all the time?
Why does pastor cross himself during such and such?
If you’re looking for the latter, check out “Why?” by Burnell Eckhardt.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews