Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 24: The 111th Altar Servers Day was solemnly and joyfully celebrated at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, on November 23. Approximately 70 dedicated altar servers took part in the thanksgiving Eucharist, serving with reverence and devotion at the altar.
The holy Mass was concelebrated by Fr Osmond Roshan D'Souza, assistant parish priest and spiritual director of the Altar Servers Sodality, along with the vicar Fr Walter D’Souza. The altar servers beautifully carried out liturgical responsibilities such as crossbearing, incense duties, candle procession, offertory assistance, and bell service with discipline and grace—showcasing their sincere commitment to the parish liturgical ministry.
Special appreciation was extended to animators Oswald Fernandes and Sr Felcy (Bethany) who have been continually training, mentoring, and guiding the children with patience and dedication throughout the year.
A significant moment of the event was the commissioning of 17 newly joined altar servers from the 4th and 5th standards. They were officially inducted during a solemn commissioning ritual led by the spiritual director and vicar, Fr Walter D’Souza, who blessed them and entrusted them with their sacred duty of serving at the Lord’s altar.
Following the Mass, a short but meaningful programme was held in the church hall. The guest of honour, Oswald Pais, delivered an inspiring message, reflecting on the virtues of the patron saint of altar servers St John Berchmans, highlighting his purity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to serving God. He also shared fond memories from his own childhood of serving as an altar boy, motivating the young servers to serve with joy and enthusiasm.
Vicar Fr Walter D’Souza, in his address, emphasised the need for discipline, humility, and piousness among altar servers who are given the privilege to stand closest to the Eucharistic mystery. He encouraged the children to not only read but also write the word of god inviting all altar servers to begin writing the holy Bible by hand. Those who successfully complete this unique spiritual exercise will be honoured during the next Annual Day in 2026.
In recognition of dedicated service, 11 altar servers who attended the highest number of daily Masses throughout the year were felicitated with appreciation and blessings.
The celebration concluded with refreshments served to all children, parents, animators, and clergy, fostering a spirit of fellowship and gratitude. The day stood as a meaningful reminder of the noble vocation of altar service, helping young hearts grow closer to God through prayer, discipline, and devotion.