On very rare occasions, the sung masses on Sunday (8am and 9:30) will have only a crucifer and no other servers. In this situation, the duties of the MC largely transfer to the crucifer and the processional candles and communion torches are not used.

At the Entrance, the crucifer collects the birettas from the celebrant and deacon. This requires the elimination of the “hinge movement”. When the crucifer enters the chancel the crucifer immediately turns to put away the processional cross. He then stands in front of the cross until the ministers have passed and follows the celebrant to the altar steps. There he collects the birettas and moves to his position at the foot of the altar.

At the Gospel Procession, the acolyte moves the altar missal to the Gospel side before taking up the Gospel book.

The crucifer handles the plates and gates at the Offertory and at the Ablutions, while the acolyte manages the cruets.

The crucifer holds the paten for the deacon during the Communion of the Faithful.

The crucifer moves the altar missal back to the Epistle side at the completion of the ablutions.