This article's about religious acolytes. For other uses, see Acolyte (disambiguation). In many Christian denominations, an acolyte's anyone who performs ceremonial duties such as lighting altar candles. In other Christian Churches, the term's more specifically used for one who wishes to attain clergyhood. Etymology The word acolyte's derived from the Greek word akolouthos, meaning companion, attendant, or helper. The Acolyte ministry has its roots in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible, where… (More on Acolyte)