ALTAR BOY Meaning and
Definition
-
An altar boy refers to a young male participant who assists in religious ceremonies, specifically within the context of Roman Catholicism. Often between the ages of nine and fourteen, altar boys are typically chosen from the local parish or community to perform duties during Mass or other church services. The term "altar" stems from the Latin word "altare," meaning a raised structure or platform, usually dedicated to offering sacrifices or worship. Hence, an altar boy's primary role is to aid the clergy in the celebration of the Eucharist, the central sacrament of the Catholic faith.
The duties of an altar boy may include various tasks such as setting up the altar, carrying liturgical objects like candles, cruets, or the processional cross, and assisting the priest during the preparation of the bread and wine. These responsibilities require a level of obedience, reverence, and attentiveness from the altar boy, who must diligently follow the ceremonial guidelines and rituals of the Catholic Church.
Apart from their practical assistance, altar boys often serve as role models for younger members of the congregation, displaying devotion and commitment to the religious community. Serving as an altar boy can be seen as an opportunity for young boys to cultivate a deeper understanding of their faith, as well as develop personal virtues such as discipline, humility, and respect. Varying in specific practices across different regions and cultures, the institution of altar boys has been an integral part of Catholic liturgy for centuries, preserving tradition and offering young individuals a chance to actively participate in the sacred rituals of their religious community.
Common Misspellings for ALTAR BOY
- zltar boy
- sltar boy
- wltar boy
- qltar boy
- aktar boy
- aptar boy
- aotar boy
- alrar boy
- alfar boy
- algar boy
- alyar boy
- al6ar boy
- al5ar boy
- altzr boy
- altsr boy
- altwr boy
- altqr boy
- altae boy
- altad boy
Etymology of ALTAR BOY
The word "altar" traces back to Latin "altāre", which means "high place" or "a raised structure for offering sacrifices". It is related to the verb "adolēre", meaning "to burn". The word "boy" originated from Middle English "boi", which stemmed from Old English "bōia" and ultimately from an ancient Germanic root meaning "servant" or "attendant".
The term "altar boy" specifically refers to a young male who serves during religious ceremonies in the Catholic Church. These boys assist the priest by carrying the censer, lighting candles, holding the book, and performing various other tasks at the altar. The combination of "altar" and "boy" forms the phrase "altar boy".
Similar spelling words for ALTAR BOY
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
