Altar Guilds
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“Members of the altar guild are ministers of the liturgy. This ministry involves preparing the worship space with the furnishings, appointments, vessels, elements, linens, and paraments used in the liturgy.” (Altar Guild and Sacristy Handbook by S. Anita Stauffer)
Study and discuss worship in your altar guild using the study guides for:
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Explore our Worship FAQs for questions about particular worship furnishings, vessels, elements, linens, and paraments.
| Altar Guild Resources and Handbooks |
Altar Guild and Sacristy Handbook by S. Anita Stauffer
This handbook helps altar guilds understand their responsibilities and how best to perform them. Included are practical instructions regarding preparation for Holy Communion, Holy Baptism, marriage, burial, confirmation, daily prayer services, healing rites, other occasional services, and seasons and festivals of the church year. The book also provides tested suggestions for organizing an altar guild, devotions for altar guild meetings, and a helpful glossary. (2000, Augsburg Fortress) |
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Worship Word Book by S. Anita Stauffer and Ralph R. Van Loon
This reference tool defines over 500 words and phrases associated with Lutheran worship. Subjects are presented alphabetically for the convenience of users. It offers historical information and practical guidance regarding each of the rites and rubrics of Lutheran Book of Worship and its necessary companion, LBW, Ministers Edition. Worship Wordbook also addresses rites and rubrics of Occasional Services. (1995, Augsburg Fortress) |
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To Crown the Church Year: Decorating the Church through the Seasons by Peter Mazar and Evelyn Grala
Contains solid, practical advice on how to adorn the church's house for the seasons of the year, even through the long days of summer. Each chapter includes a section on images of the season drawn from the scriptures, the liturgy, and nature. Illustrations by Evelyn Grala will challenge your own creativity. Brief essays on debatable questions will help in your planning and preparations. (1995, Augsburg Fortress) |
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In overseeing the worship life of a congregation, the starting point is the gift of the church’s traditions.... At the same time, worship is always contemporary, designed for a particular congregation at a particular time.”
- Preparing the Assembly’s Worship by Craig M. Mueller