Abstract: An apparatus and method for lifting a plurality of reinforcing bars (rebars) all at one time, and holding them in vertical position while they are connected one at a time to the upper ends of steel elements such as bolts or reinforcing bars protruding from concrete. The apparatus has an elongate lower element with a row of blind holes or recesses in its upper end to receive the lower ends of the bars. An elongate upper element has a row of through holes in registry with the blind holes. The two elements are held apart by cables. A cover on the side of the upper element opens so that the sides of the through holes are exposed so that the bars can be loaded on the sides of the through holes and into the blind holes. The cover is then closed and the apparatus lifted by a crane from the upper element to a position close to the steel elements. Each bar is then lifted from the blind hole, while sliding in the through hole. It is then connected to a steel element.