By Dan Robin Santos

Published on June 7, 2024

ANTIPOLO CITY, PHILIPPINES – Aiming to ensure uniformity and proper liturgical decorum during celebrations, Most Reverend Ruperto C. Santos, D.D., Bishop of Antipolo, has issued new directives regarding the attire and conduct of altar servers within the diocese. 

The directive mandates that all altar servers wear a cream-colored vestment with a monastic hood and a white cincture wrapped around the waist. This attire aligns with the traditional role of laypersons in liturgical services.

For less solemn occasions, altar servers may wear a white or cream-colored long-sleeve polo, or a short-sleeve polo at the discretion of the parish priest.

Additionally, altar servers, including those acting as masters of ceremonies, are prohibited from wearing vestments similar to those of clerics, such as the clerical alb, cassock, or surplice reserved for invested seminarians and priests – a measure intended to prevent any blurring of roles between lay ministers and ordained clergy.

The diocese will continue its long-standing policy of allowing only boys or young men to serve as altar servers.

Young boys may begin their service after their first reception of Holy Communion and continue until they reach 25 years of age, at which point they are encouraged to participate in other parish ministries.

In his letter, Bishop Santos emphasized the importance of maintaining the distinction between the roles of clerics and laypersons, citing concerns over “clericalization” where lay ministers might assume duties reserved for ordained clergy.

He further highlighted that maintaining clear boundaries is crucial for the proper functioning and respect of liturgical roles within the Church.

Parishioners and clergy alike are expected to adhere to these guidelines to foster a unified and reverent worship environment.