Date: 7th April to 16th April 2025
The Church of Our Lady of Vailankanni, Bhadravathi, organized a Summer Altar Servers’ Seminar cum Training Program from 7th April to 16th April 2025, led by Br. Glanson and Br. Ashlin. The seminar aimed to deepen the spiritual understanding and enhance the liturgical service of the altar servers, both boys and girls, who are eligible to assist at the altar during the Holy Eucharist.
Throughout the program, the seminarians provided input sessions focusing on the importance and sacredness of altar service. The participants were reminded that altar serving is not merely a task but a privileged ministry that brings them closer to Christ and His Church. They were taught that serving at the altar is a grace-filled opportunity, and that their service plays an important role in the liturgy.
Key topics covered during the training included:
- The spiritual significance of altar serving
- The call to holiness through service at the altar
- The responsibilities and commitment expected of altar servers
- Introduction to religious articles used in the liturgy and their purposes
- Proper reverence and decorum during liturgical celebrations
- Basic liturgical prayers to actively participate in the Holy Mass
- Practical sessions on how to assist the priest during different parts of the Mass
The seminarians also emphasized the sacredness of the altar and guided the participants on how to maintain a prayerful and respectful presence in the sanctuary. Each day, the servers participated in interactive sessions, group activities, and role plays that helped reinforce the lessons and teachings.
To encourage participation, the altar servers were provided with refreshments daily, and a supportive, joyful atmosphere was created to make the experience engaging and spiritually enriching. On the final day, certificates of participation were distributed to all the altar servers in recognition of their sincere involvement and learning.
The seminar proved to be a meaningful and formative experience, inspiring the children to serve with greater devotion and understanding. The parish community is hopeful that this training will bear fruit in the faithful and reverent service of our young altar servers.
