Altar Server Ministry: A Valuable Opportunity To Grow In Faith Through Service

It is clear how altar servers have an important and special role in the Catholic Mass. In many ways, they “lighten the load” for our priests and deacons. In a 2015 address, Pope Francis stated, “Serving at the altar is a privileged way to draw closer to Jesus, which in turn enables you to open yourselves to others, to journey together, to set demanding goals and to find the strength to achieve them.”

Pope Francis also said this closeness to the altar helps to remind altar servers to pray every day, while providing them with the skills to go out and spread their joy.

Deacon John Paul Martin calls the ministry of service at the altar an “awesome responsibility,” and says the most important role for altar servers is preparing and clearing the altar for the Consecration.

“It is similar to preparing your table at home for a Thanksgiving meal feast, though with infinitely more importance,” he says. “Bringing forth the Roman Missal, corporal, purificator, paten, and chalice, along with the bread, wine and water for Consecration are all the roles of the altar server.”

Here at Ascension, we have altar servers of all ages, both male and female. Children may begin serving in fourth grade. The adult servers assist mostly at weekday Mass and funerals.

Deacon John Paul believes that helping children and teens develop a solid foundation in the faith is important, and it will equip them for the future. He recalls a conversation he had before Mass with two altar servers. He thanked them for giving of their time and talent, and one replied how serving helps him pay closer attention at Mass, while the other said she had learned so much more about the Mass.

“We know that challenges to our faith will come, and having as many tools as possible to deal successfully with them can only be a good thing,” Deacon John Paul says. “In this way, not only does the soul of the individual benefit, but the life of the Church does as well.”

There may be some natural anxiety that comes with serving in this ministry, but Deacon John Paul points out that there’s always someone there to help with subtle reminders. Everyone is there to serve our Lord.

“The Holy Spirit of God is always there to help, as well,” he says.

Deacon John Paul invites anyone to get involved as an altar server. Training can be done in groups or one-on-one. Cody Volk leads the altar server training and is assisted by the clergy. Cody and Christy Volk’s children, Katie and Matthew, have years of serving experience, as well.

If you would like volunteer as an altar server, or if you would like more information, please call the parish office at 701-223-3606.

Altar Server Blaise Kathol carrying up the cross to begin Mass