A Manual for Altar Guilds: Theology, History, and Practice

by Robert A. Picken

Overview

An essential volume spanning the theology, tradition, and practical considerations of altar guild ministry

This necessary and practical guide is designed to function as a theological, formational, and spiritual resource for any altar guild member. Peppered with Scripture and prayers, it examines the history and tradition of the noble office and elevates the altar guild role as a vocation in the life of our church. Offering definitions, instructions, and illustrations, this volume has what you need to prepare for every liturgical season, as well as a guide for special services, including weddings, funerals, ordinations, and visits from the bishop. The volume will address modern challenges for this ministry arising from the Covid-19 pandemic, including health and safety and the rise of virtual worship services, as well as unique opportunities for leadership in a changing ecclesial landscape.

The congregations of The Episcopal Church are richly varied in architecture, custom, tradition, style of worship, and practice. The Manual for Altar Guilds will serve as a foundational resource and guide for this essential ministry, providing practical yet flexible guidance that can be easily adapted to meet the unique needs of your congregation and the changing times.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781640657090
Publisher:	Church Publishing, Incorporated
Publication date:	12/03/2024
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.00(d)

About the Author

The Rev. Canon Robert A. Picken is Rector of St. Paul’s Church in Rochester, New York.  A graduate of the General Theological Seminary, where he served a term as Chief Sacristan, he has served in parishes and cathedrals for nearly 20 years. He is an honorary canon of the Cathedral of the Incarnation on Long Island and an Adjunct Professor of Anglican Liturgy at the Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School. He lives in New York state.
 

Table of Contents

Foreword
Introduction
1. Altar Guild as a Vocation
2. The Ministry in Scripture and Tradition
3. An Introduction to Liturgy
4. The Liturgical Space
5. The Book of Common Prayer
6. The Church Year
7. Seasons and Holy Days
8. The Holy Eucharist: Historical Development
9. The Holy Eucharist: Today’s Theology
10. Holy Baptism and Confirmation
11. The Daily Offices
12. Pastoral Offices
13. Special Services
14. Contemporary Considerations

Afterword
Appendix A: Sample Checklists
Appendix B: Illustrations
Appendix C: Sample Schedule
Appendix E: Additional Resources
Appendix F: Glossary
Appendix D: Selected Articles
Appendix G: Sample Commissioning
Appendix H: Additional Prayers
Appendix I: An Altar Guild Hymn

Editorial Reviews

In both a practical and spiritual way, Canon Picken has captured the essence of the incarnational self-giving of those who prepare for the community’s liturgies. He offers necessary insight and depth into the practical theology which is at the center of our encounter with the holy and the missional motivation to share Christ’s gift of self in the world.

Lawrence C. Provenzano

Fr. Rob Picken’s commitment to the literacy of all the baptized and his solid liturgical instincts honors the work of the Altar Guild by taking seriously their theological formation for what that they do. I commend it for use in every community of worship.

James W. Farwell

"This is a wonderfully readable and in-depth look at the ministry of Altar Guild. The level of detail makes it a good read not only for seasoned guild members but also those just starting out and all involved in or around the sacristy and sanctuary."

David A. Hawley-Lowry

Rob Picken offers an excellent resource not only for altar guilds but for anyone who is interested in worship in the Episcopal Church. He provides a concise but comprehensive tour of the history and theology that grounds our worship as well as a clear view on current worship patterns. At the heart of this book is a clear love for our common worship life and a deep respect for those ‘custodians of the sacred’ who sustain and support how we worship.

Andrew R. Wright

This text is an ideal primer both for altar guild members new and experienced, as well as anyone who is looking for a basic overview of how the Episcopal Church approaches sacrament, sacred time, and sacred space. It is an essential tool for those who lovingly tend to worship.

Elise B. Johnstone

Fr. Rob Picken’s commitment to the literacy of all the baptized and his solid liturgical instincts honors the work of the Altar Guild by taking seriously their theological formation for what that they do. I commend it for use in every community of worship.

From the Publisher