St Lawrence Guild of Acolytes

The St Lawrence Guild of Acolytes provides for the training and participation of liturgical ministers (acolytes) who assist at all public liturgies celebrated at St Mary's, including Sunday Mass, weekday Masses, Matins & Evensong, Benediction, weddings, funerals, and other occasional or periodic ceremonies.

Men & boys interested in serving the Lord by way of the ancient ministry of altar service are encouraged to apply. Potential candidates must be members of the parish in good standing. The ultimate goal for the Guild is to return to monthly meetings for liturgical training and practice, as well as fellowship. 

The St Lawrence Guild is a chapter of the Order of St Vincent, an international body of lay ministers who follow the liturgical practices of the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church, primarily Anglican and other Western Rite Churches. The Order is comprised of Subdeacons, Acolytes, Sacristans, Vergers, Bell Ringers, Choristers, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors, Lay Readers, Lectors, Ushers, and Greeters. Men and boys who join the St Lawrence Guild will also be eligible for membership in the Order of St Vincent, after six months of service.

Every aspirant to the Order, including adult leaders and trainers, must have performed in a lay-ministerial capacity for at least six months, demonstrating a desire to serve with knowledge, responsibility, and diligence prior to admittance to the Order. Aspirants must understand and be willing to live by The Rules of the Order and strive to support its Purpose and the Objects of the Order. Each application for membership must include a statement of sponsorship by the aspirant’s rector, vicar, or chaplain. First-year initiation fees are required of new members to cover the cost of administration, the O.S.V. medallions, the frameable parchment membership certificate. Every member also pays annual oblation. Junior Members (age 16 and younger) pay a reduced dues rate.

• To promote holy living among its members.
• To promote unity in Christ and friendship and camaraderie among lay ministers
• To promote loyalty and full cooperation to the clergy and lay leaders.
• To encourage regular attendance at the Holy Eucharist, and more careful preparation for its reception.
• To teach the complete Sacramental Faith as taught in the One, Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church, and promote the practice of the same.