Sacristans have three main roles:

1. Assuring proper treatment of the Holy Species during and after the celebration including keeping the tabernacle secure
2. Mass set-up and clean-up for both Liturgy of the Word and Liturgy of the Eucharist, (e.g. preparing the books, vessels, offertory, and incense when appropriate)
3. Mass coordinator— checking to make sure the altar servers, lectors and Special Ministers are present and ready to serve.

Sacristans must be commissioned as Special Ministers of the Eucharist. A sacristan is needed for all weekend and weekday Masses. Frequency of service depends on the number of volunteers. The time commitment is one half hour before and after the mass(es) you are serving.