Why do we need Altar Servers?
Catechism Meditation:
“For the purpose of assisting the work of the common priesthood of the faithful, other particular ministries also exist, not consecrated by the sacrament of Holy Orders; their functions are determined by the bishops, in accord with liturgical traditions and pastoral needs. ‘Servers, readers, commentators, and members of the choir also exercise a genuine liturgical function.’” ―No. 1143
REFLECTION. Lay people fulfill several important roles in the liturgical life of the Church. These include serving as altar servers, readers, psalmists, choir members, cantors, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, sacristans, ushers, greeters, and masters of ceremonies. Lay people exercise these liturgical functions to ensure the orderly celebration of the Mass and allow all members of the congregation to fully participate. However, in an increasingly secularized world, fewer young people seem willing to serve God, especially in the sacred role of the altar server.
Altar servers play a crucial role in the Catholic Church, serving as assistants to the priest during Mass and other liturgical celebrations. They perform a variety of duties that help ensure the smooth running of the religious service and create a reverent atmosphere in the church. They also assist the clergy in various tasks during the Mass, such as carrying the processional cross, lighting candles, and holding the missal. They also help in setting up the altar and preparing the sacred vessels used in the Eucharist. They ring the bells during the holiest part of the Mass, the consecration. The takeaway is that this unique experience — to sit on the altar, not with the congregants — elevates the role being performed. Working closely with the clergy, altar servers must have a deep understanding of the liturgy and a strong commitment to serving their faith.
Altar servers are much more than helpers during Mass; they are the guardians of the altar, witnesses to the mystery of the Eucharist, and models of faith for the entire community. Their service reminds us that the Church is a family in which everyone, young and old, is called to collaborate in God’s work. Altar servers also serve as role models for other young people, demonstrating the importance of active participation in the life of the Church. Any boy that has received his First Communion and is interested in being an altar server at either of the parishes, please call the rectory office at 814-495-5241.
PRAYER. Our Father, bless our altar servers with wisdom and grace as they serve in Your holy sanctuary. May they embody reverence, joy, and dedication in their ministry, drawing closer to You and inspiring others in faith.
Timeless Wisdom Quote:
“We have been sent into this world as children of God, to assist at the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. We are to take our stand at the foot of the Cross and, like those who stood under it the first day, we will be asked to declare our loyalties. God has given us the wheat and the grapes of life, and as the men who, in the Gospel, were given talents, we will have to show return on that divine gift.” ― Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen