Sacristans play a vital behind-the-scenes role in ensuring that the liturgy at St. Louis Catholic Church is celebrated with reverence and order. They are responsible for preparing the altar, ensuring all sacred vessels and liturgical items are in place, and assisting the priests and deacons during Mass. Their role is essential in maintaining the sanctity and smooth flow of the liturgical celebrations.

Who Can Become a Sacristan?

• Age Requirement: Adults who are dedicated to the Church and have a deep respect for the liturgy.
• Personal Qualities: Sacristans should be organized, responsible, and detail-oriented, with a strong sense of reverence and commitment to serving the Church.
• Training: Sacristans must undergo proper training to learn the responsibilities of their role and the reverent handling of sacred items.

Responsibilities of a Sacristan

• Prepare the Altar: Sacristans ensure that the altar is properly set up for Mass, placing the necessary items such as candles, linens, and the Eucharistic vessels in their proper places.
• Manage Liturgical Items: Sacristans maintain and care for the sacred vessels, vestments, and other liturgical items, ensuring they are clean, polished, and ready for use.
• Assist the Priest and Deacon: Sacristans assist the celebrant and deacon as needed during the Mass, ensuring the flow of the liturgy is seamless.
• Prepare for Special Liturgies: Sacristans help prepare for special liturgies and sacraments, including weddings, funerals, and feast days, ensuring everything is ready for the service.
• Maintain the Sacristy: Sacristans are responsible for keeping the sacristy tidy and organized, ensuring that all liturgical supplies are stocked and in good condition.

How to Become a Sacristan

1. Register: Interested individuals can register by contacting the parish office or speaking with the head sacristan.
2. Attend Training: All new sacristans will receive training on their role, including the handling of liturgical items and the preparation of the altar.
3. Serve in the Ministry: After training, sacristans are scheduled to serve during Mass and other liturgical events, helping to prepare the altar and assist the clergy.

Why Become a Sacristan?

• Serve the Church: As a sacristan, you are serving the Church in a crucial and meaningful way by ensuring the sacred elements of the liturgy are properly prepared.
• Enhance the Liturgy: Your work as a sacristan contributes to the reverence and beauty of the Mass, creating an environment that allows the congregation to fully participate in worship.
• Spiritual Enrichment: The role of the sacristan is deeply spiritual, providing an opportunity to serve God in a behind-the-scenes way that supports the liturgical life of the parish.

Contact Us
For more information about becoming a sacristan, please contact the parish office at or speak with the head sacristan.

Join Us in Serving the Liturgy
If you have a love for the sacred liturgy and enjoy working behind the scenes to ensure that the Mass is celebrated with reverence and order, consider becoming a sacristan. It’s a deeply rewarding ministry that helps bring the beauty of the Church’s worship to life.