For this Reason, the Stoics were called Acolythes; in regard, nothing could shake or alter their Resolves. See STOIC.
Among Ecclesiastical Writers, the Term Acolythes is peculiarly applied to those young People, who, in the primitive Times, aspired to the Ministry; and for that Purpose, continually attended the Bishops: Which Assiduity occasioned their being called Acolythes.
In the Romish Church, there are a sort of Acolythi yet in being; but their Functions are different from those of their first Institution. They are such as have only received the first of the four lesser Orders, whose Business is to light the Tapers, carry the Candlesticks and the Incense-Pot, to prepare the Wine and Water, etc. See ORDER, etc.
At Rome there were three Kinds of Acolythes, viz. Palatini, who waited on the Pope; Stationarii, who served in Churches; and Regionarii, who, together with the Deacons, officiated in other Parts of the City. See STATIONARII, DEACONS, etc.
The Word is derived from the Greek ἀκολουθέω (akoloutheō), to follow.