About
Altar servers are young members of the Church who assist the priest during liturgical celebrations, especially the Holy Mass. Their service includes carrying the cross, holding the book for the priest, preparing the altar, and helping with incense, candles, and other sacred items. Through their role, they help make the liturgy more reverent and organized.
Serving at the altar is more than just a duty — it is a form of worship and a path of spiritual growth. Altar servers are taught discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and reverence for the sacred. It is also a way to inspire vocations, as many priests and religious leaders started their journey as altar servers.
Activities
Attending Training and Rehearsals
Servers undergo regular training to understand their roles and deepen their knowledge of the Mass. They also attend practice sessions for major feasts and events to ensure proper coordination.
Fostering Spiritual Growth
By serving at the altar, servers grow in faith, prayer life, and reverence. The experience helps them build a closer relationship with God and develop values such as humility, respect, and responsibility.
Supporting Parish Events
Beyond the Mass, altar servers may assist during parish events such as processions, retreats, and prayer services. Their presence and service reflect dedication to the Church and inspire other young people to get involved in parish life.
Assisting During Mass
Altar servers help the priest throughout the Mass by carrying the processional cross, holding the Roman Missal (prayer book), presenting the water and wine, and assisting at the altar during key moments of the liturgy.
Preparing the Altar
Before Mass begins, altar servers help set up the altar with sacred vessels, linens, candles, and books. After Mass, they also assist in clearing and properly storing the items used.
Carrying the Processional Items
Servers lead the entrance and recessional processions by carrying the cross, candles, and incense. This sets a reverent tone for the liturgical celebration.
Participating in Special Liturgies
Altar servers assist during special Church celebrations such as weddings, funerals, confirmations, feast days, and Holy Week services, where the rituals are more elaborate and sacred.
Join us in the Alter Servers
Services
How to Join the Altar Servers Ministry
Joining the Altar Servers Ministry is open to all baptized boys and girls who have received their First Holy Communion and show a willingness to serve with reverence and discipline. Interested children or youth can register through the parish office or speak to the altar server coordinator after Mass. Regular training sessions are provided to help new members learn the parts of the Mass, understand their roles, and grow spiritually.
The Importance of Serving at the Altar
Serving at the altar is more than a task — it is a calling to serve God in a special way. Altar servers play a key role in the liturgy, helping the community pray in a more orderly and sacred environment. It teaches responsibility, respect for the Church, and encourages a deeper connection to the Eucharist and the life of the Church.
A Message to Parents and Guardians
Parents and guardians are encouraged to support their children in joining this beautiful ministry. By allowing them to serve, you help nurture their faith and develop values that last a lifetime. Your encouragement, punctuality, and participation in their spiritual journey are vital in helping them grow as faithful young Catholics.
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