7Altar servers should be properly trained and properly formed. This manual provides altar servers with detailed instruction on what their duties are and how to do them. It is a practical guide for serving Mass and other rites in the context of the parish. The guidelines are based, not only on respect for the liturgical laws of the Roman Rite, but on long experience of supervising ceremonies in parishes in the United States. It takes into account variations and local customs, but within the framework of liturgical law.