After entering the sanctuary the cross-bearer will bow to the tabernacle (altar if tabernacle is at a side altar) and then proceed to place the cross in its stand, normally facing the priest as the people can all see the central crucifix behind the altar. Never genuflect when carrying anything, including the procession cross. The candle-bearers follow the cross-bearer in procession and bow to the
tabernacle (altar if tabernacle is at a side altar). All servers will then proceed to their assigned locations genuflect/bow facing the tabernacle from their assigned positions with the priest and the deacon. If the tabernacle is on a side altar face the tabernacle when genuflecting/bowing. During the Glory to God in the Highest (Lord have mercy . . . during lent), the appointed server will pick up the small sacramentary and wait for the priest to say, Let us pray. When the priest says, Let us pray, server will proceed directly in front of the priest and open the book to the pre-marked position. Hold the book open so the priest can read the prayer. Keep the pages flat, your fingers out of the text and do not move about while the priest is reading. When the priest is finished, close the sacramentary and return it to its place. Sit down in your assigned position for the readings. All servers sit with the people during the collection. When the ushers are 3/4 of the way down the middle aisle during the last collection the candle-bearers stand up, genuflect to the tabernacle and walk to procession candles. Genuflect to the tabernacle, pick up your candles and turn toward the people. Walk to the back of the church and wait for the rest of the gift procession. When the ushers have the procession ready turn toward the altar and lead the gift procession to the priest. The candle-bearers should walk slowly together starting on their left foot toward the sanctuary. When walking hold the candle underneath with your inside hand and grasp the candle stick with your outside hand, holding your elbow out toward the people. Never carry anything but your candle! When you reach the sanctuary pass around the priest and deacon and proceed to the front of the altar. Set down your candles and genuflect to the tabernacle if it is behind the altar, bow to the altar if the tabernacle is on a side altar. Proceed to your positions at the credence table or assist the priest in accepting the gifts if no other server is available. The cross-bearer and remaining servers should stand when the priest and deacon stand and follow them to the assigned positions. Servers should be positioned at the left side and behind the priest. If a deacon is not present one server should take the water and wine cruets from the priest and place them on the credence table. Another server should take anything else brought up in the procession and place it on the credence table. Remove the tops from the wine and water cruets and hand the deacon or priest the wine or water as he directs. Stand until the deacon or priest is finished. If it is the priest who you hand to or pour the water and wine, bow to the priest (do not bow to the deacon) and then return to the credence table and recap the wine cruet and place it on the credence table. The reason we bow to the priest is because he acts in the person of Christ during the consecration of the Mass.
