what are they... what do they do... under what circumstances can one become one... all in context with the NO please

(i have an ulterior motive for asking... but want to get the info first before i proceed with more info)

The GIRM specifies their duties pretty clearly. Roughly its an altar server who can also be an EMHC (still extraordinary, but they should be used before anyone else). Normally seminarians become one at some point of their training. I have heard of a few programs for regular folks to become instituted acolytes, but I don't know of any that are currently active.

hehe... precisely why i wanted to know... our archdiocese will be starting one... but only if you qualify... must be male, an MC or EMHC and of a certain age (i was told 21 but i would assume 18... could be wrong there)