Apparently this topic is guaranteed to send one's visitor stats through the roof but, in my view it's more likely to lead to combox meltdown.
The link leads to The Washington Post news report on Corpus Christi Parish Church in Loudon County where the Parish Priest has said "Enough" to female altar servers. Good for him!
I wish some strong soul would also say "Enough" to wrinklies on the sanctuary (me included, much as I love serving).
You see, in my little book of curmudgeonly prejudices, I believe that altar servers should be aged betwixt 5 and, say, 21.
Older servers have a great deal of wisdom to impart and they should continue to do this..but for Heaven's sake, leave the way clear for young men to shine.
I have yet to see a young altar server given any duty other than holding a candle or acting as boat boy (with the incense). That is pretty insulting to youth in my book.
I was taught to MC at the age of eleven* by a very enlightened Westminster priest called Father Bushey. Others of that age quickly followed and a pattern was set. The older servers were pensioned off; I know that sounds unkind but it's rather like having a wonderful church choir with a member or two who cannot find a note at any price. It would not be tolerated. They would be (kindly, one hopes) asked to man the Piety Stall or, whatever.
* Those who have seen me MC recently may be mystified why, having had so much experience, I am fumbling and stumbling in my duties today.....but...it's an age thing Dear! And, I also blame V2 for lasering my memory into a stodge of grey porridge.
So, there we are.....how to upset both the pro girl camp and the revered oldie camp in one swift go!
Next?
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| The priest is free to decide against altar girls if he so wishes |
Christine on Laudem Gloriae has linked on it but, cleverly avoided making a comment although, anyone who reads her blog knows which way the wind blows on LG.
The link leads to The Washington Post news report on Corpus Christi Parish Church in Loudon County where the Parish Priest has said "Enough" to female altar servers. Good for him!
I wish some strong soul would also say "Enough" to wrinklies on the sanctuary (me included, much as I love serving).
You see, in my little book of curmudgeonly prejudices, I believe that altar servers should be aged betwixt 5 and, say, 21.
Older servers have a great deal of wisdom to impart and they should continue to do this..but for Heaven's sake, leave the way clear for young men to shine.
I have yet to see a young altar server given any duty other than holding a candle or acting as boat boy (with the incense). That is pretty insulting to youth in my book.
I was taught to MC at the age of eleven* by a very enlightened Westminster priest called Father Bushey. Others of that age quickly followed and a pattern was set. The older servers were pensioned off; I know that sounds unkind but it's rather like having a wonderful church choir with a member or two who cannot find a note at any price. It would not be tolerated. They would be (kindly, one hopes) asked to man the Piety Stall or, whatever.
* Those who have seen me MC recently may be mystified why, having had so much experience, I am fumbling and stumbling in my duties today.....but...it's an age thing Dear! And, I also blame V2 for lasering my memory into a stodge of grey porridge.
So, there we are.....how to upset both the pro girl camp and the revered oldie camp in one swift go!
Next?
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