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C.
Functions of the Acolyte
142.
The acolyte may have functions of various kinds and several may occur at the
same time. It is therefore desirable that these functions be suitably
distributed among several acolytes. But if there is only a single acolyte
present, he should perform the more important functions and the rest are
distributed among other ministers.
INTRODUCTORY
RITES
143.
In the procession to the altar the acolyte may carry the cross, walking between
two servers with lighted candles. When he reaches the altar, he places the
cross near it and takes his own place in the sanctuary.
144.
Throughout the celebration it belongs to the acolyte to go to the priest or the
deacon, whenever necessary, in order to present the book to them and to assist
them in any other way required. Thus it is appropriate that, if possible, he
have a place from which he can conveniently carry out his ministry both at the
chair and at the altar.
LITURGY OF
THE EUCHARIST
145.
After the general intercessions, when no deacon is present, the acolyte places
the corporal, purificator, chalice, and missal on the altar, while the priest
remains at the chair. Then, if necessary, the acolyte assists the priest in
receiving the gifts of the people and he may bring the bread and wine to the
altar and present them to the priest. If incense is used, the acolyte gives the
censer to the priest and assists him in incensing the gifts and the altar.
146.
The acolyte may assist the priest as a special minister in giving communion to
the people.61 If communion is given under both kinds, the acolyte
ministers the chalice to the communicants or he holds the chalice when
communion is given by intinction.
147.
After communion, the acolyte helps the priest or deacon to purify and arrange
the vessels. If no deacon is present, the acolyte takes the vessels to the side
table, where he purifies and arranges them.
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