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ALTAR SERVER MINISTRY: Faithfully Sharing Talents with Our Lord and Our Parish
The sacrifice at the altar is the most important part of the Mass, with the Eucharist at the center of the Catholic faith. Since the Mass is of the utmost importance, altar servers play a key role. As they serve, these youth provide a powerful example of reverence and respect for the Mass.
Mari and Kenny Spencer have three children — Madeline and Jackson previously served, and Matthew currently serves. Mari, who has been trainer for the Altar Server Ministry for 10 years, has a passion for this ministry and loves helping to prepare our servers.
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“I thought this was a good way to be part of my church and community,” Mari says. “It has really been a blessing. I have enjoyed seeing these kids year after year.”
Boys and girls may begin serving as altar servers after they receive their first Holy Communion in the second grade. This ministry is not just for Immaculate Conception School students — all youth may participate.
“This isn’t a club, like other clubs,” Mari says. “It’s very special and important. You have to want to be a part of this ministry for this to work.”
As youth enter sixth grade, they can take on the role of master of ceremonies — a lead altar server.
“These youth become role models for the altar servers,” Mari says. “It’s neat to see that transformation happen.”
This ministry was on a long break, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, Mari joins many others in our parish in excitement to see the servers back at the altar. She would love to see more youth step up to serve in this way — it is an honor to serve the Lord! It’s also a fantastic way for our youth to begin thinking about vocations.
Mari especially encourages those youth who may be nervous to get involved. There are lots of opportunities to practice and there is always support from the other servers and the master of ceremonies.
“At the end of Mass, Father has a moment with them to pray, and he thanks them,” Mari says. “It makes these kids feel so included. It’s such a great way to get involved and to learn the beauty of the Mass.”
Mari and Kenny Spencer with their three children and granddaughter, Lilah Gray
