Saturday, October 9, 2010 10 AM
31st Annual National Acolyte Festival
Acolytes
- Tickets: $21-$32 per acolyte.
- Buy tickets now
Join us for an exciting day of worship, celebration, and enrichment in the nave of Washington National Cathedral!
- Meet acolytes and worship leaders from across the nation
- Bring your processional crosses, banners, torches, thuribles, flags, and streamers for a festive procession of acolytes, clergy, and vergers
- Liturgical dance groups welcome
- Optional lunch and a variety of workshops
Deadline for registration is Friday, September 24. For information and phone reservations, call (202) 537-2228.
If you are paying by check, please enclose this Registration Form »
Schedule
8:30 am — Check-in
Receive registration packets and vest
10 am — Festival Service of Holy Eucharist with Rededication of Acolytes
12:15–1:30 pm — Lunch on Cathedral Grounds
1:30–2:30 pm — Workshops
Workshops
Gargoyles of the Cathedral
Learn about Cathedral gargoyles with a slide show in the auditorium, followed by a self-guided tour of the grounds where you can spot the fantastic creatures that inhabit this Cathedral.
FUNdamentals of a Eucharist
Join us for a lively, experiential look at the sacrament of Holy Eucharist. Using volunteers from the “congregation” we’ll explore each section of this central act of Christian worship celebrated for over 2000 years.
Jubilation Streamers
Let your colors fly! Learn how to use jubilation streamers and watch them soar through the Cathedral’s lofty spaces. Washington National Cathedral’s Acolyte Master will guide the way.
Holy Smoke: The Work of the Thurifer
A hands-on workshop that showcases the special ministry of the thurifer. Includes review of equipment, technique, and the history of the use of incense in worship.
Dressing up
Ever wonder why we wear what we wear? Have you ever wanted to dress like a bishop? Well here’s your chance to try on vestments, ask questions and learn more about why clergy and lay persons wear what they wear and when.
High School Verger Program
Explore a successful program that employs the experience and leadership skills of high school–aged acolytes to serve as vergers in Sunday services. In the process these high school vergers increase parish-wide acolyte proficiency and free the celebrant to concentrate on the worship service itself. This program has been successful in attracting and retaining the active participation of students throughout their high school years in addition to cultivating leadership dynamics.
Workshops subject to change.
Parking for Groups
If you be arriving in a bus, mini-bus, or other large vehicle, please see group visits for more information about reservations and parking.