Parde’s Points to Ponder – 7/3/25
One of the most beautiful opportunities in the life of a parish is the chance for young people to serve at the altar of God. Altar serving is not simply a task or a routine; it is a privilege, a ministry, and a profound way to grow closer to Christ.
When a young person dons the cassock and approaches the sanctuary, they step into a sacred role. They are not performing; they are assisting at the heavenly banquet where earth and heaven meet. Their hands, hearts, and attentiveness help lift the eyes of the congregation to the mystery of the Mass. The reverence with which they carry the cross, the candles, the incense, and handle the sacred vessels speaks volumes, often without words.
Altar serving also shapes hearts. It teaches responsibility, discipline, teamwork, and deep familiarity with the liturgy. It fosters a love for the Eucharist and often plants the seeds of future vocations to the priesthood or religious life. Even for those who are not called to a religious vocation, the experience leaves a lasting imprint of faith and service.
It is, above all, a grace. To serve at the altar is to stand close to Jesus, to serve Him directly, and to grow in love for His Church. It is also a gift to the whole community—because when our young people serve with dignity and devotion, they remind us all that the Mass is not just a ritual, but a living encounter with the Lord.
If your children are considering becoming altar servers, I encourage you to take that step. It is a beautiful way to belong more deeply to the life of the Church and to encounter the living God in a special way.
I am most grateful to our growing “army” of altar servers at All Saints, for their eagerness to learn, the purity of their faith, and their readiness to serve. Thank you to all of you! May our parish always be blessed with young hearts eager to serve at the altar of the Lord!
Praised be Jesus Christ, now and forever!
All you holy saints of God, pray for us!
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Michael Silloway
Pastor