Liturgical Customary of the Church of the Advent, Boston
© Julianne E. Turé and William J. Theisen 1999
PDF version: sacristan.pdf
The Liturgical Customary of the Church of the Advent,
Boston
Roles and Responsibilities of the Sacristan
The sacristan is a member of the parish who is ultimately responsible for the material preparations for all liturgical services at the church. The sacristan is responsible for the recruitment, training, development, scheduling and supervision of the members of the Altar Guild. The average weekly time commitment is eight to twelve hours per week.
The sacristan serves as a member of the Liturgical Planning Committee and as an adviser to the Gifts and Memorials Committee and Property Committee. The sacristan manages the Altar Guild budget.
Qualifications
The person must have experience on the Altar Guild preparing vessels,
vestments, and candles; have a strong sense of the specifics of the
liturgical life of the parish; and have the ability to motivate the
group to its highest level of performance.
The sacristan must show evidence of personal maturity in faith as to
be able to maintain an atmosphere of devout yet joyous service.
The sacristan must have previous experience in management or a leadership
position. Teaching ability with all age groups is necessary. The sacristan
must have basic understanding of church, parish, and liturgical history.
Understanding of textiles and sewing is also important.
Relationships
The sacristan is appointed by and reports to the rector. The sacristan
supervises members of the Altar Guild. He or she will communicate regularly
with the Parish Administrator regarding special services such as weddings,
funerals and baptisms and will also make the Administrator aware of
special needs involving the work of the sextons (cleaning, moving of
furniture, fans, etc.) The sacristan will work closely with the director
of the Flower Arranging Guild to coordinate flowers and devotional
displays. The sacristan represents the parish to the diocesan altar
guild. The sacristan also works closely with the Acolyte Warden to
ensure smooth coordination of preparations for services.
The sacristan will be evaluated at least annually by the rector regarding
his or her effectiveness in leading the group, based on the effectiveness
of service preparation, the functioning of the group as it relates
to the spiritual development of its members, and to working relationships
with other staff members and lay leaders.