The word acolyte means ‘one who serves’. Acolytes serve at the altar, lighting the candles before the beginning of services and extinguishing them after the service, leading processions with the cross and torches, and helping the priest and deacon prepare for the Eucharist. Acolytes serve at all services on Sunday as well as at Evensong and other special services.

For more information, check out:
Procession Roles
Acolyte Manual