Altar Serving Books?

[StGeorge]

I just recently started helping serve in the altar.  There's a lot to learn, and although I'm writing down notes inside my DL service book, I was wondering if there are any resources (e.g. books) that might be helpful for those assisting in the altar.  There's a lot to do in the altar, from closing the royal doors, opening the deacons doors, closing and opening the curtain, ringing the bells, taking Fr's vestments, giving and taking the censer, etc.  I'm in my late twenties, and it's humbling to learn how to do things from eight year olds.  

I imagine I'll become knowledgeable of what to do eventually, but the more resources to supplement my "practice" the better.  Even picture books would be great.  Thanks!  

[augustin717]

I would have a quite vulgar, but hilarious, anecdote to share, but I would probably be banned from here. Sorry

[bogdan]

I am of similar age and circumstance. These pages are helpful:

http://www.stlukeorthodox.com/html/misc/altarservers.cfm
http://orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/altar_guidelines.aspx

And here is a book, but I have not bought it myself:

http://marketplaceadvisor.channeladvisor.com/storefrontprofiles/DeluxeSFItemDetail.aspx?sid=1&sfid=78319&c=945029&i=14380683

I imagine every parish does things slightly differently, and there are marked difference between the Greek and Slavic traditions. So, we should mostly do things the way we are taught, but these resources are helpful to get a general idea of what is happening.

[StGeorge]

I am of similar age and circumstance. These pages are helpful:

http://www.stlukeorthodox.com/html/misc/altarservers.cfm
http://orthodoxinfo.com/praxis/altar_guidelines.aspx

And here is a book, but I have not bought it myself:

http://marketplaceadvisor.channeladvisor.com/storefrontprofiles/DeluxeSFItemDetail.aspx?sid=1&sfid=78319&c=945029&i=14380683

I imagine every parish does things slightly differently, and there are marked difference between the Greek and Slavic traditions. So, we should mostly do things the way we are taught, but these resources are helpful to get a general idea of what is happening.

bogdan,

Thank you for the helpful links.  I read through both of them.  I may consider buying the book. 

[podkarpatska]

While there is a 'basic' role for altar servers, each priest that I know has his own version, thereby making any guidebook relatively worthless. Your best bet is to work closely with your pastor or deacon and keep an eye on those eight year olds. They love to play with wax!!!

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