The One-Day Altar Servers’ Training program was held on April 7, 2025, at Good Shepherd Church, Gopala. A total of 23 altar boys and girls participated along with their animators. The training was organized to help the young servers grow in their spiritual life, discipline, and understanding of the liturgy. It was led under the guidance of the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Stephen Albuquerque, along with Br. Mario and Br. Abishek, who actively supported and guided the sessions throughout the day.
The program began with registration at 9:00 AM, followed by an opening prayer at 10:00 AM. The first session focused on the role of an altar server and was followed by a short talk on St. John Berchmans, the patron of altar servers. The inspiring lives of St. Dominic Savio and St. Clare of Assisi were also shared. After a juice break at 11:00 AM, a practical training session was conducted where participants learned the duties of altar servers during Mass, including the order of procession, use of liturgical items, and proper gestures and responses.
After lunch at 1:00 PM, the afternoon session focused on preparing for Mass, both spiritually and practically. A final hands-on session helped the children practice what they had learned. The day ended with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, where the altar servers put their training into action. The camp was a joyful and enriching experience for all. We thank God for His blessings and all those who helped make the training a success.
