Q. 1. What is the purpose of the Altar Server Gloves?

A. 1. When a Bishop is celebrating Holy Mass, it is customary for the Altar servers to wear white gloves when holding the Bishop's mitre and crosier. Many crosiers are made out of metal and gloves help to prevent stains. Also gloves show respect for the regalia of a successor of the Apostles.

If no Bishop are present when Altar server gloves are being worn, it may for the purpose of preserving other metals. Or it may be out of respect towards this special solemnity, after all the usage of Altar server gloves has not been abrogated.

When Altar servers do wear gloves, they are usually removed when received Holy Communion and when holding the paten.