Roman Catholic Diocese of Urdaneta

ST. PATRICK OF IRELAND PARISH

Tayug, Pangasinan

KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR &

LADIES OF THE BLESSED
SACRAMENT

BY-LAWS AND
CONSTITUTION

Knight of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament

Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 ARTICLE 1: THE MINISTRY OF ALTAR SERVERS

Section 1: NAME AND PURPOSE

‗The Knights of the Altar and Lilies of the Blessed Sacrament ‘or
KOA/LOBS is the Ministry of Altar Servers under St. Patrick of Ireland Parish,
Tayug Pangasinan.

The Knights of the Altar and Lilies of the Blessed Sacrament motto:
―____________________________‖ in English ―________________________________” clearly
expresses their simple, yet, honorable mission and vision– their mission: ‗to
serve God within their capacity as Altar Servers without expecting something in
return. It also implies that altar servers are life of service and dedication; and
their vision, is to form brotherhood which centered on God ‘s unending love and
to produce more young boys and girls who willingly share their time to serve
in the Altar of the Lord.

Aside from the above stated of volunteers serving God by assisting in

the Parish‘s liturgical celebrations.‘, St. Patrick of Ireland Parish is also
hoping that through Altar Serving, priestly and religious vocations will
flourish to both young male and female members.

Section 2: THE NATURE OF THE KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR AND LADIES OF THE
BLESSED SACRAMENT

Basically, they are Altar Servers. They are ministers: A Knight of the
Altar is a male altar server while a Lady of the Blessed Sacrament is a female
altar server. Altar Servers are young people who volunteer themselves for
the service of God. Volunteers do not expect anything in return; they find joy
in serving the Lord by assisting in the Parish liturgy- by assisting the Priest,
Deacon or the Bishop in the Holy Mass. They dedicate their selves to be
committed in the Service of God.

Being Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament, as

what they call themselves, makes them unique among other Altar Servers,
unique in the sense that our parish allows competent males and females as
partners in serving the altar. The Knights and Lilies of the Altars forms a
community of altar servers dedicated in serving the altar who act like “ONE
FAMILY‘ with each members performing a specific task during the liturgical
celebrations yet also a well-rounded member in terms of performing other
duties related to Altar Serving. They are empowered by virtues that they
acquired from their on-going formations. The St. Patrick of Ireland Parish
recognizes the gift of talents that can be offered, not only by male Altar
Servants, but also by female Altar Servers since the Vatican had already
allowed the females to serve the altar in a circular letter from the

Knight of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament

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 Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments to
Presidents of Episcopal Conferences on March 15, 1994. It also states in
Canon 230 #2, that for particular reasons, the Bishop may permit women also
to serve at the altar which the Diocese of Urdaneta has already implemented.

As a community of Altar Servers, who has unity in diversity, SSS-Rule

of Life states that ―a community is made up of persons who differ in their
capabilities, duties and circumstances. This diversity manifests the wealth of
the gifts of the one Spirit. Christ breaks down all barriers and creates unity.

Section 3: GENERAL OBJECTIVES

The Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament aim to:

 Form young men and women as responsible stewards of liturgy and

of the Parish.
 Prepare them as future servant-leaders of the Church.
 Instill in them love of God and the Church through formation series.
 Foster brotherhood and unity with fellow servers.
 Imbue vocation promotion and awareness as priests, religious, and
consecrated lay.

Section 4: OATH

―I am a Knight of the Altar/Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament, I have the

freedom to choose what is good for me, and I freely choose to serve God with
all my heart, with all my soul, and with all spirit.

Section 5: MOTTO

SAMPLE MOTTO. WE MAY CREATE OR SUGGEST A FITTING MOTTO WITH REGARDS TO

OUR MISSIO AND IDENTITY AS KNIGHTS/LADIES OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT OF ST
PATRICK PARISH

“..even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life
as a ransom for many.” – Matthew 20:28

Using this motto, it helps to open the mind and heart of every altar
servers in the serving at the Altar of the Lord and to explain that being an altar
server is surrendering one‘s self in full service of God and his Church, lastly, to
mold their selves in true service like our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Section 6: THE OFFICIAL LOGO

The Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament used this
logo for official purposes of the ministry.

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 ARTICLE 2: MEMBERSHIP

Section 1: MEMBERSHIP

The Organization accepts male and female applicants who are

 10 years of age and above; and willing to serve God.
 Baptized Catholics and preferably had already taken their
first communion.
 Known and mastered the basic prayers.
 They should provide a parents‘ consent.

Section 2: TRAINING

The newly aspiring children who want to be a part of the ministry must
attend seminars, scheduled by the officers, which is set for their foundation in
faith. To know differ the Catholic teaching as well as the Doctrine of the
Church. Refer to the matrix below in planning altar servers training.
SESSION TIME TOPIC

1 8:30- 9:30 The Roman Catholic Church

2 9:30- 10:15 The Ministry of Altar Servers
10:15- 10:30 BREAKTIME
3 10:30- 11:30 Prayer Talking to God (Basic Prayers)
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME

4 8:30- 9:30 The Mystery of the Holy Trinity

5 9:30- 10:15 The Ten Commandments
10:15- 10:30 BREAKTIME
6 10:30- 11:30 Seven Sacrament
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME
7 8:30- 9:30 12 Articles of Faith
8 9:30- 10:15 Mary: Special Role in the Church
10:15- 10:30 BREAKTIME
9 10:30- 11:30 The Holy Rosary
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME
Holy Eucharist
10 8:30- 10:00
(Part 1)
10:00- 10:15 BREAKTIME
10:15- 11:30 Holy Eucharist
11
(Part 2)
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME

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 12 8:30- 9:30 Liturgical Calendar & Sacred Books
13 9:30- 10:15 Sacred Vessels & Linens
10:15- 10:30 BREAKTIME
14 10:30- 11:30 Proper Decorum in the Mass
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME
15 8:30- 11:30 Orientation in Serving 1
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME

16 8:30- 10:30 Orientation in Serving 2

10:15- 10:30 BREAKTIME
17 10:30- 11:30 FINAL ASSESSMENT
11:30 HOME SWEET HOME

Section 3: BONAFIDE MEMBERS

Bonafide members means, they are actively serving in the Parish

Church as Altar Servers. As Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed
Sacrament, they have their ongoing formation where they continually grow in
faith and in wisdom in serving the Lord.

Section 4: RANK OF MEMBERS

The Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament has three
(3) specific ranks. Ranking depends on the years of service in the ministry, on
the expertise shown by the Altar server in serving and for being an
exemplary model of every server.

1. OBSERVER

The young boy or girl who aspires to be a member of the ministry and
want to serves as Knight of the Altar or Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament.

REQUIREMENTS:

 Must have a Good Moral Character.

 Must have a good standing within the ministry.
 Must attend the Seminar- Workshop for Observers or any activities
prescribe by the Coordinator and the Chairman of Formation.
 Must passed the written and Oral Examinations (75% and above)
 At least, 6 months to 1 year observation or otherwise provoke by the
Parish Priest, Spiritual Director or Coordinator.
 Master and internalize the Basic Prayers and Church Doctrines.

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2. JUNIOR

The young boy or girl who passed the rank of OBSERVERSHIP and now
invested as Knight of the Altar or Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament. The Junior
rank must have four (4) years of advancement Program.

REQUIREMENTS:

 Must have a Good Moral Character.

 Must have a good standing within the ministry.
 Shows exemplary service in the Church.
 Master the Doctrines of the Church, Basic Prayers and Basic Skills in
serving.
 Must attend at least ten (10) activities and more.
 Bonafide member of the Ministry.
 Must passed the written and Oral Examinations (75% and above).

3. Senior

The young boy or girl, who passed the rank of JUNIORSHIP are
subjected to rank as SENIOR, the highest rank of an altar server. The SENIOR
ranks must have five (5) years of Advancement Program.

REQUIREMENTS:

 Must have a Good Moral Character.

 Must have a good standing within the ministry.
 Shows exemplary service in the Church.
 Master everything about the church Doctrines, Rituals, Basic
Prayers, skills in serving and speaking.
 Must attend at least fifteen (15) activities and more.
 Bonafide member of the Ministry.
 Must passed the written and Oral Examinations (75% and above).
 Possessed Qualities of a Leader.

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 Article 3: RESPONSIBILITIES

The Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament are required to:

Section 1: Serve in the Mass with their proper attire.

Section 2: For males: dark long-skirt; black shoes with white socks; plain-
white shirt under the prescribed vestment (alb with surplice and
centure); proper haircut

Section 3: For Females: dark pants; black shoes with black socks; plain- white
shirt under prescribed vestment; properly set hair, if the hair is long;
wear hairnet.

Section 4: Loud jewelries that would catch the attention of Mass goers are not
encouraged to be worn.

Section 5: Check yourself from time to time: trimmed fingernails, clean

and well pressed attire.

Section 6: Assist at other Liturgical celebrations assigned to them.

Section 7: always ask permission from the Sacristan Mayor or Coordinator

when taking things from the sacristy. The Altar Server is liable to
everything that he/she has borrowed.

Section 8: Synchronize your watch with the Parish Clock which follows
Standard Philippine Time.

Section 9: Attend the formation-meetings every 3rd Saturday of the month.

They are expected to display proper behavior and show respect to their
fellow Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament. They are
expected to wear proper attire during formation-meetings. Wearing of
shorts is discouraged unless it was advised prior to the meeting.

Section 10: Cellphones and other forms of communications are discouraged

when sessions are on-going. You may disrupt the on-going session and
destruct the talk giver. To show respect, better inform your expected
callers and texters that you will turn-off or put into silent mode your
communication device.

Section 11: Attend other organizational activities that will not coincide with the
activities of Knights and Ladies of the Altar or would not affect their
presence in their schedule of serving. There will be times that the Parish

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 would ask their collaboration with certain liturgical preparations and
they are encouraged to participate.

Section 12: Come 30 minutes or at least 10 to 15 minutes before the mass

begins.

Section 13: Log-in diligently into the Attendance Book before serving the
Mass and in attending every formation-meetings.

Section 14: In terms of absence, the person should delegate other Knight or
Ladies of the Altar to fill his/her place and inform diligently the
Coordinator and other involved, with this matter. It is encouraged for
the absentee to write a letter explaining addressed to the Knight and
Lilies of the Altar Coordinator explaining the cause and circumstances
of the absence to be kept by the Committee of Guidance.

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 Article IV: GOVERNANCE

The Organization is governed by a set of officers composed of:

1. Coordinator
2. General President
3. Vice President
4. Committees:
 Secretariat and Documentation
 Finance
 Public Information
 Guidance
 Peace and Order
 Formation and Vocation
 Membership and Appointment

They are Elected by the majority votes of the bonafide members or

appointed by the Advisers. Bonafide members means, they are actively serving in
the Church as Altar Servers. The Each one has a duties and responsibilities of its
own as agreed upon by the entire body. The term of the office is, at least, one year

Section 1: REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTION

 a bonafide member for two (2) years
 15 years old and above
 with no suspension and termination cases at present
 shows interest in all Organizational activities
 with sense of leadership abilities, commitment and capabilities
 When there is no qualified members to such responsibility, the
first two requirements written above can be surpassed. The most
important is a person who is capable and committed in a certain
function, with the recommendation of the spiritual director/Lay-
in-charge. He must be constantly guided by the spiritual director

Section 2: FUNCTIONS

1. KOA/LOBS COORDINATOR: Being a leader, he/she has the right to:

 Appoint and revoke appointments within the ministry.
 Convene a meeting both of the officers and members.
 Speak and represent for the Organization on all parish activities as
required.
 Take the final decision when the Body cannot reach the decision
or decide.
 Ensure the effective and efficient functioning of the ministry officers
and members.
 To approve and authorize disbursement of funds.

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  Manage the ministry by creating formation- programs and activities
 Provide inspiring leadership in the implementation of the programs.
 In charge on the overall supervision of the ministry.

2. GENERAL PRESIDENT: Being the second in command, he/she has the

right to:
 Assist the Coordinator in setting the directions of the ministry.
 Take the responsibility of the Coordinator when absent.
 To seek assistance from other bodies for effective implementation of
the activities.
 To follow-up the implementation of activities established by the
Coordinator.
 To call special meetings of officers and members.
 Assist the coordinator in managing the ministry by creating
formation- programs and activities.
 Review and make recommendations on the programs/reports of the
ministry.

3. GENERAL VICE- PRESIDENT: Being the third in command, he/she has the
right to:
 Take the responsibility of the General President when absent.
 Assist the Coordinator and President in setting the directions of the
ministry.
 To call special meetings of officers and members.

4. CHAIRPERSON OF SECRETARIAT AND DOCUMENTATION: Being the

chairman of Secretariat and Documentation, he/she has right to:
 Take the responsibilities of the above-mentioned officers when
absent.
 Take notes of the proceedings of the meeting.
 Note down the Mass schedules of the servers.
 Ensure that everyone has logged in the attendance book.
 Inform via text, Facebook or other available media all the
members about the incoming meetings.
 In charge in keeping the important documents of the ministry.
 Gather all the reports of the different Committee Chairpersons
and keep it in one folder.
 Serve as the secretary of Coordinator and the General President.

5. CHAIRPERSON OF FINANCE: Being the chairman of finance, he/she has the

right to:
 Take responsibilities of the above-mentioned officers when they are
absent.

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  Take charge of collecting the contributions and disbursements of the
Organization.
 Take charge of the funds of the Organization.
 Initiate activities to make the Organization economically stable.
 Make an accounting of the funds every month.
 Act as purchasing officer.
 Maintaining records of incomes and expenses; collecting receipts
assist in preparing for reimbursements of expenses.

6. CHAIRPERSON OF PUBLIC INFORMATION: Being the chairman of Public

Information, he/she has the right to:
 Designate information all members of the ministry.
 Inform everyone about the minutes of the meeting.
 Inform via text, Facebook or other available media all the
members about the incoming meetings, programs and activities.
 In charge in establishing and Maintaining group chats,
Facebook Page and so on as soon as it includes designation of
information to everyone concern.
 Create Service Schedule of altar servers per month and any special
activities of the church.

7. CHAIRPERSON OF GUIDANCE: Being a Prefect of Discipline, he/she has

right to:
 Established rules and regulations of the ministry.
 Monitor and implement rules with the Chairman of Peace and Order.
 Record altar servers who committed offenses.
 Decide corresponding disciplinary actions or sanctions on the
offense committed by an altar server, by the virtue and approval of
the coordinator.
 Provide a monthly report about the tallied attendance of every server.
 Provide a Guidance Report with the Chairman of Peace and Order.

8. CHAIRPERSON OF PEACE AND ORDER: Being the chairman of Peace and

Order, he/she has right to:
 See the functions and duties of every member of the ministry.
 Established rules and regulations of the ministry together with the
Prefect of Discipline.
 Monitor and implement rules with the Prefect of Discipline.
 Record altar servers who committed offense.
 Report the recorded and tallied offenses to the Prefect of Discipline.
 Deliver and implement disciplinary action forwarded by the Prefect
of Discipline.

9. CHAIRPERSON OF FORMATION AND VOCATION: Being the chairman of

Formation and Vocation, he has right to:

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  To determine and develop the goals and aims of the ministry.
 Design plan of action to develop one ‘s physical, emotional
and spiritual growth.
 Conduct activities to promote and encourage vocations
and camaraderie within the ministry.
 Provide documentation report of program and activities.

10.CHAIRPERSON OF MEMBERSHIP AND APPOINTMENT: Being the

chairman of Membership and Appointment, he has right to:
 Review the background of aspiring boys and girls who want to
be altar servers.
 Conduct examinations for membership.
 Provide the list of altar servers to be invested.
 Hold the master list and Bio Data of Altar Server.
 Review and monitor the performance of officers in their chosen office.
 Give recommendations and feedbacks of officers.
 Provide the names of the bonafide altar servers to be ranked.
 Lead the ranking committee for decision and approval making.
 Consult the Coordinator for approval and recommendations for
ranking.

Section 3: TERMS OF OFFICE AND ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Officers‘ term of office is limited only to two (2) years. It is the role of both
officers and members to facilitate the election of new set of new officers. The Rector/
Director should be informed about the election so that he could be present, if he
can, or he could delegate someone on his behalf to foresee the proceedings of the
election.

As possible, the organization encourages that new set of officers would be

elected on the next term giving chances to others to partake in the leadership.
However, as long as that election is done democratically, any incumbent officer/s
could also be re-elected.

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 Article 5: ADDRESSING MEMBERS’ OMISSIONS

It is true that ―many are called but few are chosen. But many were also called
but there are also times that only few responded. The organization does not tolerate
omissions but the organization remains compassionate to those who need attention
by reminding them constantly. It is the organization‘s officer‘s responsibility to
maintain harmony within the organization. They are encouraged to resolve small
matters within their level to exercise their leadership; and if that could not be
resolved, through the organization‘s officers, the Parish Priest and/or the Spiritual
Director are informed about the serious matters beyond their capacity to resolve.
The gravity of the offense, if that would affect the whole body, will concern the
organization, more, the Parish Priest and or the Spiritual Director. Positive
interventions will be applied. Suspension could be given while undergoing this
positive intervention. After several warnings within specified conditions and
duration of time, if the member remains incorrigible– unable to be formed because
of his/her strong will, only then that the member will be asked to leave the
organization to find his/her place to where his/heart really belongs.

The organization will try to resolve its individual member‘s or few member‘s
needs, however, the organization would not exhaust his/her resources for the
benefit of only of few members this why interventions, which includes, suspension,
community service, counseling, home visitation and other that would best fit the
situation will have duration. Such interventions if not time framed would affect the
function of the officers, the Parish Priest and or the Spiritual Director. Strictly,
compliance is a must. Failure to do so by the offender would mean that he/she lacks
of interest. The organization is in need of interested members. Interested members
show commitment to what they are doing. Individual‘s deviation on behavior will be
a nuance and would affect the entire organization. The person involved is expected
to be mature enough to understand the situation and the consequences his/her
action could bring forth to the organization.

All decisions to be made will always be in favor of the good of the greater
majority. Decisions should be reflected and unbiased answering the question, ―What
would Jesus do if He is here. The organization is being reminded that Jesus do not
tolerate sinfulness since He remains compassionate to the sinners. As Catholic
Christians, we address the sin but we never condemn the person.

As Catholic Christians, we exercise a Catholic Christian Morality. It means

that our actions and clear thinking is always guided by the magisterium of the
Church. The Magisterium of the Church is the official interpreter of the Sacred
Scripture and the Sacred Tradition—where through the entirely of the Catholic
Church‘s teaching through the Magisterium of the Church we upheld our Catholic
Christian Morality with a Catholic Christian conscience.

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 Decisions should be good if the decisions as an ac t‘ is good itself, if the
intention is good, and the circumstances is good. Through this, by reflecting the
decision making of the organization based on this three: the act, intention and
circumstance. The organization will respond to any situation based on: see, judge
and act principle with prudence.

Section 1: SUSPENSION OF MEMBERS

The basis of suspension:

 Behavioral problems, constant violation rules, disrespect, Uncatholic

Behavior, irreverence
 Improper attire, failed to bring or wear alb/sotana in a particular
scheduled mass
 Misbehaving during the meeting or session
 Misbehaving during the mass
 Always late
 negligence, irresponsibility, absenteeism, truancy (non-attendance)
 Absenteeism- failure to serve for three (3) consecutive
Mass schedules and meetings
 Truancy- they told their parents that they will attend but has
been found out that
they went somewhere else; using the church as an excuse
to leave home.
 Destruction of properties- if found intentional, offenders will
restore/replace what were damaged
 Getting from the sacristy things that are prohibited to take out without
the permission from the Sacristan Mayor except those things which are
necessary during the celebrations upon the request of the Presider.
 Other matter

Section 2: TERMINATION OF MEMBERS

The bases of terminating a member are the following:

 Non-compliance to the interventions-failure to behave well after the

suspension
 Failure to attend the Organizational activities after the suspension
 Desecration of the Sacraments
 Immoral Conducts
 Other matters

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Section 3: GUIDANCE LETTER

Roman Catholic Diocese of Urdaneta

ST. PATRICK OF IRELAND PARISH
Tayug, Pangasinan

KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR & LADIES OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

Guidance Letter
To: Date:
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
This is to promise that I will not commit the same offense stated and mark (x) below. I ALSO PROMISE TO
OBEY THE RULES AND REGULATION OF OUR MINISTRY.
If I break my promise, I hereby entrusted the decision to the KOA/LOBS OFFICERS with the Guidance of the
Parish Priest/ Spiritual Director to impose disciplinary action or punishment upon me.

Minor Offenses:
1. Violation of the KOA/LOBS UNIFORM(Haircut, dress code, etc.)
2. Disturbance, Obstruction of Meetings, Program and other
Church activities.
3. Wearing Earrings or Tattoos (boys)
4. Misbehavior/ Disgraceful
5. Not attending regular meetings, practice, programs and any
Church activities.
6. Always late/ not following set of scheduled day.
7. Others: (specify)

Disciplinary Actions for Minor Offense:

1st Reprimand with promissory notes or Talk with the Coordinator
2nd Talk to parents
3rd Suspension (Depends on the gravity of offense)

Minor Offenses:
1. Vandalism (Destruction OF Church or KOA/LOBS Property)
2. First fight
3. Drunkenness or Drinking Liquor, smoking within the church premises
4. Immoral Conduct
5. Forging Document of falsifying official documents (Mass Card, Log- book, Official Records, etc.
6. In relationship with fellow Altar server
7. Others: (specify)

Disciplinary Actions for Mijor Offense:

1st Suspension/Person involved to see the Coordinator
2nd Suspension/ Parents to see the Coordinator with agreement of how many days (weeks),
Depends on gravity of case.
3rd Expulsion (any altar servers commit the above mentioned grave offense will be dismissed or
expelled as a KOA/LOBS member)

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 ARTICLE 6: FORMATION PROGRAM OF MEMBERS

The formation program of the members is scheduled by the officers with

their spiritual director (parish priest). It is a set of activities done every month. The
activities are: Sports, in-puts/Catechisms, recollection/ holy hours/ rosary, and or
monthly evaluation depending on the needs and the capacity of the organization in
given circumstances.

The officer of the organization held a regular meeting every fourth (4th)
Sunday of the month for the deliberation of Committee reports and for the planning
and clarification of the forthcoming activities, Church or Ministry Activities.

Activities always include formations, catechism, and skills training. Evaluation

after the activities and assignments could be done. There could be invited speakers
who have expertise on the subject matter the organization member would be
enlightened about. Invitation should be done a week in advance to give ample time
for the invited speaker to prepare. If the organization would develop its team of
speakers, they should prepare in advance and that should be well planned so that
there could be an assurance that there could be a maximum transfer of learning.

Catechism is strictly done monthly with the help of some adult volunteer
catechist. In case, that there is no available catechist, the Chairman of Formation
must inform the Parish Priest, Spiritual Director or Coordinator for appropriate
action needed. However, all the activities must be approved by the Parish Priest or
the Spiritual Director and should be planned ahead of time. Maintaining a calendar
of activity ensures that most of these plans were implemented. The organization will
always exercise austerity or simplicity in every activity it will undertake. Although, the
organization will always give importance to the safety of all its members, individual
members will be held liable to themselves upon their participation in every
organizational activity. Each of the activities should be recommended by the Chairman
of Formation and Vocation and the officers of the organization upon the consensus of
the organization‘s members. Possible activities could be:

 Recollection– Advent and Lenten Recollections

 Sports Day—during a semestral break
 Annual Evaluation and Planning
 Outing- this is could be held after the Lenten Season or month of May or
during the Christmas Break.
There could be other activities suited for the members of the Knights of the Altar and
Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament that could surface. All of these activities should
undergo discernment and would subject to the approval of the Parish Priest and or
Organization ‘s Spiritual Director and the KOA/LOBS Coordinator. Technically, the
budget for each of the activities will be shouldered by the members of the
organization.

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Knight of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament
Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 ARTICLE 7: DUES AND CONTRIBUTIONS

The Officers could implement ways of raising funds when needed.

Implementing every meeting due could be considered. If this would happen, the
Chairman of Finance will facilitate in the orderly and prudent manner of collecting
the dues. The Chairman of Finance will make report on the collected dues and
present a financial statement every meeting with the list of expenses and the
remaining balance. The report should be seen from time to time by the Parish Priest
and or the Spiritual Director.

The amount of the contribution should be determined and decided by the

entire body. The organization is aware that most members are students, so small
amount yet reasonable amount of every meeting contribution could be collected.

The small amount of contribution could be collected that can be used to buy
snacks, office supplies, and for providing materials to be used for the formations of
members. Members are encouraged to be generous but are expected not to be
extravagant.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 Article 8: STRUCTURE OF FORMATION-MEETINGS

Section 1: OFFICERS’ MEETING:

Officers meeting is scheduled every 4th Sunday of the month. The meeting
will be centered on the Committee reporting, Planning and clarification of activities
and other matters which needs special attention and discretion. The time will always
depend on the free time of the officers and with the discretion of the coordinator or
the general president.

In case of any unexpected circumstances, the coordinator is given authority

to re-schedule the meeting into more convenient days and time.

The format should be as follows:

 Preparation of the meeting room; the attendees should log-in their

name in the log book‘
 The format of the attendance includes: name, signature and time-
in; members should sign for their own name and signature.
 Prayer
 Reading of the previous minutes by the Chairman of Secretariat and
Documentation
 Follow-ups
 Presentation of Agenda
 Possible agenda: topics to discussed, assigning of personnel;
addressing problems and presenting solutions; planning ahead.
 Ending prayer
 Bonding and Merienda
 Cleaning of the meeting room– turning off the lights and other switches,
closing the windows, arranging the chairs, pulling-off the plugs.

Section 2: MEMBERS’ MEETING (Regular meetings)

The regular formation-meeting is every 3rd Saturday of the Month. A formation-

meeting is a very important occasion for every Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the
Blessed Sacrament for they will share learning and experiences; make organization
planning together and bond with one with one another.

 Preparation of the meeting room; the attendees should log-in their

name in the log book
 Prayer
 Energizer, action song, ice breaker
 Skills

Knight of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament

Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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  Lecture or Presentation and Discussion
 Evaluation- can be a quiz, question and answer, activity
 Ending prayer; Praying over to members who celebrate their
birthday and Blessing of the Food about to partake (if there is)
 Bonding and Merienda
 Cleaning of the meeting room– turning off the lights and other
switches, closing the windows, arranging the chairs, pulling-off the
plugs.

When there are Observers during their trainings in preparation for their
investiture, the format is still the same. A capable Knight or a Lady will be
assigned to each Observer to mentor him/her. In cases that there are many
Observers, more than one Observer could be mentored by a Knight or a Lady.

Agape or bonding and eating together strengthen the relationship of the

members of the organization so the organization takes full effort to prepare for this.
Budgeting the time wisely and facilitating the formation-meeting systematically
ensures quality bonding time. Snacks to be serve does not need to be expensive.
Moreover, the members are strongly encouraged to bring snacks and refreshments
to share.

In case of Special Occasions, the Parish Priest, Spiritual Director, or

Coordinator could call for a special training-meeting for those who will be
involved.

Observers‘ formation-meeting could be also done more frequently

depending on the circumstances and their readiness to learn.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 Article 9: TRAINING AREAS

Section 1: THE CHURCH

Altar Servers are one of the privilege Altar Ministers. A privilege is an

opportunity granted only to those who deserve it. As Altar Servers, being a
responsible Knight and Lily of the Altar, learning skills of serving the altar properly
would require your formation to have access inside the Church during skills
training.

When inside the Church, prudence should observed by all Observers and
Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament since people could be
praying inside the Church anytime of the day. Avoid making destructive gestures
and unnecessary noise, maintain the prayerful atmosphere and be very graceful in
your actions. Always remember, when the Tabernacle is lighted, there is the
presence of God in the form of Holy Eucharist inside it so always be reverent in
everything you are doing while inside the Church most especially when you are in
the Sanctuary.

The formation-meeting of the Knights and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament is

scheduled on Saturday morning where there is no Adoration. Always remember that
the Sacristan Mayor or the Coordinator should always be informed in advance about
the practice inside the Church. Practice inside the Church should be only with the
presence of the Parish Priest and or Spiritual Director. If the practice is very
necessary, the Parish Priest and or Spiritual Director should be informed; if without
the Parish Priest or Spiritual Director, officers of Knights of the Altar and Lilies of the
Blessed Sacrament should take charge only after being permitted to do so.

There should be no practice when the Blessed Sacrament is exposed, unless

the Blessed Sacrament would be transferred to the Adoration Chapel or Reposed.
Transfer or reposition of the Blessed Sacrament is only permitted to be done by a
Priest, a Brother or an installed Acolyte who is preparing for Priesthood. In
ordinary situation, not everybody could simply repose or transfer the Blessed
Sacrament since reverence and care should be always considered. Priests, Brothers
and installed Acolytes who are preparing for priesthood have the faculty to do this
matter. Unless for grave reason, somebody with the intention of saving the Blessed
Sacrament from desecration or destruction, could touch and transfer the Blessed
Sacrament with reverence and full knowledge of what he/she is holding is the
Lord, Himself.

Most altar servers in preparation for big events practice at night time when people
already went home. With this option, same basic principles are applied: ask permission
to the Parish Priest or Spiritual Director, then, inform the Sacristan Mayor or the
Coordinator. Ask the help of the Sacristan Mayor or Coordinator in preparing the
Liturgical objects to be used especially, if they will be coming from the Sacristy. All
sacred objects taken from the sacristy should be borrowed first from the Sacristan

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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Mayor or the Coordinator. The Knights of the Altar and Ladies of the Blessed

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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Sacrament officers will take charge of the training if the Parish Priest and or the
Spiritual Director would not be in the Church, after use: returning the things they
used in their proper places—returning available; and together with other Altar
Server members present, they will be responsible to keep borrowed sacred objects
to the Sacristan Mayor or Coordinator and placing them back to the Sacristy; and
coordinating with the them, if there is, with the turning-off of lights and by asking
their help in closing all the doors you have previously accessed.

Section 2: FORMATION CENTER (PARISH HALL)

Formation Center is the meeting and discussion room. The Knights of the Altar
and Ladies of the Blessed Sacrament Officers should be responsible of asking those
person involved to open the Parish Hall. Everybody should help in arranging the
room in a way that would suit the day‘s formation-meeting. Arranging the chairs
and tables in different manners would help in setting moods in learning.

You are also allowed do some recreational activities inside the Parish Hall.
You can rearrange the room according to your need but remember to fix
everything you used to their proper places before you leave.

After each use of the Parish Hall, fix the chairs and tables and set it ready for
the next users. Turn off the lights; unplug the cables, and turn-off the main switch.

Inform the person concern when you are leaving so that he/she could lock the
Parish Hall.

Section 3: THE OFFICE ROOM OF THE KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR AND

LADIES OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

The organization will keep their office-room clean, neat and tidy. Coordinate
for the Sakristan Mayor or Coordinator to open the office room. Any member who
enters into the Altar Servers‘ office-room, they need to log-in: write their name, sign,
the purpose of visit, date, and the time-in and time-out. The last person to leave will
shut the door closed, pull all the electric plugs, turn off all the switches and shut off
the electricity if possible.

Since the office room is not large, the organization will post only on the office
room‘s wall the most necessary: mirror, bulletin board and prayers before and after
serving. A table with chairs will be provided.

The office-room could be small but could serve as a multi-function office-

room: a place for training, learning, studying, praying, bonding and if necessary, a
place for spiritual guidance and counseling. Sensitivity is needed to maximize the
usage of this small office-room.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 Learning materials like books and modules should be placed on a strategic
area where everybody can access them whenever they need to. Learning is a
lifelong process and our office-room should provide materials. There are many
materials from the internet, members can contribute by printing the important
articles and collect them into an album. All contributed materials are subject for
checking.

The office room could also accommodate Altar Servers who served at the
mass held here at the parish so the organization should maintain the office-room
properly. How the organization maintains their resources reflects their being
responsible in taking care of the things being entrusted to them. The orderliness of
the organization will be reflected on how they keep their office-room. The office room
should be free of vandalism. Maintaining the cleanliness of the office-room is the
business not only of the officers, but, of everybody.

Every after serving, be sure that all vestments used in serving are properly
arranged into their lockers; and all used materials were properly returned to their
proper places.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 Article 10: ROLE OF PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

Parents and guardians play a crucial role in the spiritual and holistic formation
of their children-servers. Hence they are:

 Must remind and encourage children to attend to their respective

liturgical services and other schedules in the ministry.
 encouraged to provide opportunities for their children to deepen
their spiritual growth and participation in parish life, such as prayer
time in the family, attendance in parish formation series, or even
instilling vocation awareness to their children
 oblige to attend Parents‘ Meetings when scheduled by
the Coordinator.
 Encouraged to help in financial needs of the Ministry when needed.

Section 1: KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR AND LADIES OF THE BLESSED

SACRAMENT PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

The KNIGHTS OF THE ALTAR AND LADIES OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT

PARENTS‘ ASSOCIATION is an organization intended for all the parents and
guardians of altar servers under the guidance and supervision of the Ministry. The
association serves as the backbone of the ministry and shall be recognized by the
Parish Priest and the Spiritual Director. The association must elect President, Vice-
President, Secretary and Treasures, these officers will act as the main representative
of the association and function as the ―Advising Body‖ who will be working with the
KOA/LOBS GENERAL OFFICERS in attaining the Ministry mission and vision.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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 Article 11: ANNUAL EVALUATIONS

Section 1: ANNUAL EVALUATION ACTIVITIES

The organization should have an annual evaluation as stated on the activities

of the organization in Article 6, Formation Programs of Members. Evaluation is the
culmination of the all programs implemented within a year. In the evaluation, what
important is the recognition of the Light and Shadows that was faced by the
organization. The evaluation will be the guiding principles in preparing for the next
annual planning. Evaluation will be the culmination for a job well-done by the
incumbent officers who are about to prepare the organization for the next election
of new set of officers. The results of the evaluation could also recommend
amendments on the Constitution and By-Laws of the Knights and Ladies of the
Altar.

Section 2: ANNUAL EVALUATION OF BONAFIDE MEMBERS

There should be a separate Yearly Evaluation of bonafide Members that

would be brought up to their Spiritual Direction which will also be the basis of the
approval of their application for renewal and ranking. Hand-written Letter of
Application should be done before their renewal and ranking, thru the Chairman of
Membership and Appointment to be answered with a Letter of Recommendation by
KOA/LOBS Coordinator and with the approval of the Parish Priest or the Spiritual
Director. See also: Article 2 section 3 Evaluation of bonafide members.

Those who are suspended could still be renewed but they are in probationary
status until all the requirements stated by the interventions were satisfactorily
accomplished.

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 Article 12: AMMENDMENTS

Revisions of all what are stated here on the Constitution and By-Laws of the
Knights and Ladies of the Altars could be done to address the needs of the members
of the organization based on the recommendation and findings of the annual
evaluation. The Parish Priest and/or the Spiritual Director should be informed; and
with them, the organization will reflect if such changes would benefit and would be
good for the entire members; and if such changes would fit the ideals and would
benefit the purpose, the mission and vision of the organization.

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Tayug Pangasinan, Philippines
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