How to Motivate, Train and Nurture Acolytes. Robert Ormston Eaton

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       Foreword

      Acolyte training is a dynamic, ongoing process that evolves as acolytes enter and grow in their ministry. This book was written in response to a need for a manual that will help adults who work with acolytes discover creative ways to teach skills, encourage teamwork, and provide a strong spiritual foundation. It is not intended to be a handbook for acolytes, because they generally need more support and guidance than they would get from reading on their own. The book's intent is to suggest a flexible and responsive program, based on the premise that there is no one “best way” to work with acolytes, because they have to be prepared to serve within the wide variety of traditions and practices found among churches and clergy and across denominations

      Drawn on experience from many parishes, diocesan acolyte gatherings, and various training workshops, this book is offered as a working tool. It presents concepts that will be helpful to people working with acolytes, and ideas for workshop-type training sessions that can be used as the foundation for acolyte training in any congregation. The sessions will work for any size group and are appropriate for trainers with varying levels of skill and experience. Although this manual is focused primarily on the needs and styles of adolescent acolytes, girls and boys and men and women of all ages are interested in the acolyte ministry, so suggestions can easily be adapted as needed.

      We hope you find this manual helpful. Revisions will be made from time-to-time, so we would welcome your ideas and observations as you use the book in your acolyte training program. For your convenience several “tools” can be found in the Appendices, including a basic glossary, and a form for prayer and reflection that we suggest acolytes use regularly as they prepare to serve. Trainers also might find it enriching.

      Although the book is written from the perspective of the Episcopal Church, the ideas and concepts can easily be translated to meet the requirements of other traditions. However, because of its Episcopal focus, you will see occasional references to material in The Book of Common Prayer (BCP).

      An interesting road lies ahead. Good luck as you traverse it, and have fun!