Media Release
Mangaluru, Oct 21: The Altar Servers Day was joyously celebrated at St Sebastian Church, Bendur, on October 20. Around 75 altar servers actively participated in the Eucharistic celebration. The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Fr Walter D'Souza, parish priest of Bendur, as the main celebrant, along with Fr Lawrence Cutinha, assistant parish priest. The altar servers demonstrated great dedication in performing the liturgy during the Mass.
A special highlight was the oath-taking ceremony of the newly joined altar servers from the 4th and 5th grades, formally inducting them into their new roles.
The celebrations continued with a formal programme and cultural extravaganza at the Centenary Auditorium. Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including, Fr Walter D'Souza, parish priest, Fr Lawrence Cutinha and Fr Vivek Pinto, assistant parish priests, Fr Denzil Lobo, Fr Arun Lobo, principal of Padua College, Vinod D'Souza and Patsy Britto, vice-president and secretary of PPC, Deepak D'Souza, convenor of 21 commissions, Oswald Fernandes and Sr Eulalia Maria Lobo, animators, Rohan Lobo president and Joshua Mascarenhas, secretary of the Altar Servers.
The programme began with a prayer song performed by the altar servers, setting a reverent tone. Rohan Lobo, president of the altar servers, welcomed the gathering, while Haniel D’Souza presented the annual report for 2023-24. During the event, toppers of the 10th standard were honoured for their academic achievements. Joshua Pereira, a past member of the altar servers, shared his valuable experiences, inspiring the younger members. Prizes were awarded to altar servers who had served consistently at Mass, along with winners of various games and quiz conducted as part of the celebration. Humility Group emerged as the overall champions and Obedience Group secured second place.
In his presidential address, Fr Walter D'Souza expressed his gratitude to the altar servers, animators, and priests for their commitment and efforts in making the event a success. He encouraged the altar servers to seize every opportunity to serve at the Eucharist and grow in their spiritual journey. He shared ten important lessons about St Berchmans, the patron saint of altar servers, encouraging the children to adopt these virtues in their lives.
The altar servers enthusiastically participated and put forth beautiful and well appreciated cultural programme which included dances and skit on the life of St John Berchmans. Sr Eulalia proposed the vote of thanks. The parents of altar servers and well-wishers participated in large numbers and wholeheartedly appreciated the programme. The event was hosted by Jewel and Jolene, who served as the masters of ceremony. The celebration concluded with Fr Arun Lobo blessing the meals, followed by a fellowship dinner, bringing the joyous event to a close.