As members of the faith-filled community of Saint Charles Borromeo, the Altar Servers answer the call to service that we all receive. Annually, the servers log over 800 hours of community service and demonstrate what it means to be good stewards of our Father and His Church.
The members of the Ministry of Altar Servers assist in the celebration of the sacred liturgy through the sharing of their talents and contribute to the spirit of prayer through the reverent way they perform their tasks. Service to the parish community is a way to live out the life Jesus promised us in the sacrament of baptism. At St. Charles, the Ministry of Altar Servers serves the people of God in a variety of liturgical celebrations, including:
- Saturday Vigil Mass
- Sunday Masses
- St. Charles School Masses
- Holy Days of Obligation
- Weddings
- Funerals
- Stations of the Cross
- Prayer Services
- Penance Services
- Parish Mission Services
They participate in many activities within the church community as well. The Altar Servers host two car washes annually, with moneys recently raised going to the Joey Uvalle Fund.
To be an altar server is an honor and a privilege. As the late Pope John Paul II stated, “Your commitment to the altar is not only a duty, but a great honor, [and] a genuine holy service.” The purpose of this ministry is serving at the Table of the Lord, assisting the presider in the celebration of the Eucharist as well as other sacraments or liturgical activities.
“Like baseball, the liturgy thrives on teamwork, the more of it the better. No baseball team is only composed of pitchers or left fielders, and the liturgy similarly looks for many different ministers, especially during grand celebrations.” Part of the responsibility of Altar Servers is to help “set the pace” for all those who participate in the liturgy. The servers “help other people to understand the Mass better and make their love for God stronger.”
People do not go to Mass because they are interested in seeing you make mistakes; rather, they go to Mass to “see what it means to be really involved.” The servers’ “actions and appearance should show that [they] love God and God’s people.” Altar Serving is not just about serving God at the Table of the Lord. The ministry allows the people of the church community to become more involved in their faith and to learn more about the practices and rituals of the Roman Catholic Church.
If you would like more information on the Ministry of Altar Servers, you are asked to complete the Contact Form or email the Coordinator. During the week, you may also call the Parish Office 407-293-9556.
