FEATURE continued
THE ACOLYTES Serving as student acolytes (altar servers) is a long-held tradition at Grace-St. Luke’s. During the Lower School Chapel, fourth grade students serve as acolytes. During the Middle School and All-School Chapels, seventh grade students serve as acolytes. All assist the clergy and musicians with leadership during worship. “For both sets of students, this is an important leadership role,” said Head of Middle School Ellen Hendry. “Serving as acolytes is a very visible way for them to serve our community.” In Lower School, fourth grade parents receive a letter in August and again in December explaining that the students will serve as acolytes and also have the option to be readers during chapel if they are comfortable. Four students serve at each chapel: One carries a cross, two carry torches, and one serves as a reader. This is significant for fourth graders, as they are the oldest students in Lower School. Fourth grade teacher Jane Williams provides training, since it is the first time students have an opportunity to serve as acolytes. She teaches them how to get vested, allows the readers time to practice reading and learn how to work the microphone, and helps students get acclimated to all of the roles in general. “Serving as acolytes really teaches our students about discipline,” Williams said. “Students need to arrive at 7:30 a.m. when they are acolytes. They also have to practice self-control since they are seated for all to see. It takes great discipline to practice each of the jobs because their roles could change each week. Through this process, they gain a great deal of self-confidence and are very proud of their accomplishments.” In Middle School, seventh grade parents receive a letter informing them about this special role open to seventh grade students. Five students serve as either a reader or torch/banner bearer. Students serve for a week at a time on a rotating basis. Having this role served by seventh grade students is intentional, providing these rising school leaders with an opportunity to lead the school before their eighth grade year. To prepare students for their roles, Father Ollie Rencher and Mrs. Hendry provide all students with a training session at the start of each school year.
Father Ollie Rencher poses with a group of seventh and fourth grade acolytes. Back row from left to right: Marley White, Noland Brown, Benjamin Brewer, Father Ollie Rencher, Emmy Roberts, Trinity Carroll Front row from left to right: Andrew Strickland, Martha Mitchell, Katie Young, Reed Hoffman
16
Grace-St. Luke’s Episcopal School