Question on Communion Services

[lindat]

Hi, I am wondering if there is a ruling on whether a lay person leading a communion service should be wearing an alb, or white clothing similar to the alter servers?

A parish here is beginning to offer communion services and the pastor has asked the person leading to do this.

Please help with any document links available.

LindaT

 

[Deacon_Ed]

Since I don’t have access to my documents at the moment, let me offer two general comments:

1. the alb is the proper vesture of all the baptized since it reflects the baptismal robe;
2. any time one ministers one is to wear the appropriate vesture as determined by the national conference of bishops. Normally lay persons would simply wear appropriate lay attire, but it is always permissible to wear an alb, especially if the pastor has requested it.

Deacon Ed

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

When I would conduct Communion services on a regular basis. to fill a particular need. I would always wear an alb and a cincture of the correct liturgical color for the day.

 

[Deacon_Tony560]

Some bishops do not allow lay persons to wear any type of an alb or vestments. Some pastors also refuse to let lay people wear an alb. The reason I was told is to avoid confusion with clergy and religious. I have seen differences in the same diocese, so as Deacon Ed said, a great deal depends on the pastor’s wishes.

Deacon TonySFO