Java Web Application item catalog and search box

I just started programming with servlets and jsp, I need do display a list of items, sort by name and I also need a search box. Items are stored on a class. I managed to display the items on the system, but I don't know how to sort them or use the search box. I've read something about a servlet that generate a xml with the items to display on the jsp, but I don't know how to do it.

Thanks