2 minute read
Sharing God’s Mercy Through the Adult Funeral Server Ministry
The first time that Paul Soebbing served at the altar made a great impression on him — one that has borne beautiful fruit ever since.
“I was 40 years old when I served for the first time because I never served when I was in grade school,” he says. “I was nervous, but at the same time, it was very rewarding and special, especially because I was serving for the funeral of a man whom I knew. Then, about four years ago, Rich Rakers asked me if I would take over the Adult Funeral Servers Ministry, and I agreed to do it.”
Advertisement
Paul now enjoys coordinating the ministry, which has about 14 members. Whenever there is a funeral for which servers are needed, the parish office contacts Paul. Generally, Paul does not make up a schedule because it is not possible to plan.
“I have a list of all my servers, and I mark how many times they have each served,” Paul says. “I know if they are usually available on weekdays or weekends, and I just keep calling until I find two who can help for that particular funeral. Sometimes, one of the servers knows the deceased personally, so they request to serve their funeral.”
The adult servers are asked to come early to the funeral so that they can put on their altar server robes, make sure there are enough unconsecrated hosts and incense available, put the pall out, and make sure the holy water is ready, etc. During the funeral, when the celebrant begins his homily, one of the servers leaves to light the charcoal for the incense.
“There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work we do to make sure everything is set up properly,” Paul says. “This helps Father to concentrate on what he needs to during the funeral and ensures that things will run smoothly. The adult servers are thoroughly trained and know exactly what to do, which makes him feel comfortable and confident.”
Those who give their time and talent to this ministry find it to be a wonderful way to live out the stewardship vision.
“When we are called to serve, we say ‘yes!’” Paul says. “This ministry is definitely an extension of our faith and our apostolic service to the Church. It is also a way to show our concern for those who are grieving. It is a form of stewardship, and a means to give back from the Altar Server Ministry itself.”
To those who would like to help with this ministry but are hesitant, Paul has some encouraging words to share.
“I always encourage anyone who is even thinking about signing up for this ministry to at least call me and talk to me about it,” Paul says. “I always remind them that they will not be alone when they serve — there will always be someone with them that knows what to do.”
