Assistants to priests in religious services (8)

I believe the answer is:

acolytes

(Other definitions for acolytes that I've seen before include "They assist priests or ministers in liturgical service" , "They assist the clergy in liturgical services" , "Assistants or attendants" , "Cosy tale (anag) - followers" , "They assist priests in services" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.

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