The New Altar Guild Book

The New Altar Guild Book

“An exceedingly practical guide . . . a necessity for every congregation.”― Episcopal Life This update of a classic guide on altar guild ministry offers a lively blend of liturgical history, sacramental theology, and practical hints. The authors combine how-to advice with creative ideas on preparing for the traditional liturgies and simpler, special-occasion services. All the basics are covered―the altar guilds’ origins, function, and how they are organized, the sacristy, preparing the church for worship, decorating, cleaning, and setting the table, selecting and caring for vestments. The New Altar Guild Book also includes a thorough and creative section on decorating the church, with suggestions for hangings, candles, and flowers. The section on vestments covers their history, colors and meanings, innovative ways of making and embroidering them, their care and storage. Barbara Gent has more than 50 years of experience in altar guilds, including six years as an officer of the National Altar Guild Association, serving as program chair and first vice-president. Betty Sturges has been involved in altar guild activities for more than 40 years and has traveled extensively, visiting cathedrals and parish churches in the United States and abroad. She served as president of the National Altar Guild Association from 1979 to 1982, and remains an honorary board member.