Media Release
Mangaluru, Sep 29: The City Deanery Altar Servers’ Camp 2025 was held on Friday, September 26 at Vamanjoor Church Hall. The day-long camp brought together altar servers from 12 parishes, with a total of 551 participants, including altar servers (535) and their animators (16), for a time of prayer, learning, and spiritual enrichment
The programme began with a prayer service led by Fr Nelson Peris director of Altar Servers City Deanery, followed by the proclamation of the Word of God by Fr Jeevan Lobo, assistant parish priest of Vamanjoor.
A symbolic lighting of the lamp was carried out by Fr Stany Fernandes - resident priest, Angelore, together with Fr Jeevan Lobo, Fr Ivan Cordiero assistant manager Codialbail Press, Fr Vijay Monteiro (assistant parish priest, Cordel), Fr Nelson Peris, one animator and two altar servers representing the deanery.
Fr Kevin Lawrence D’Souza, director of Kripa Sadhana, delivered an inspiring talk on vocation—explaining the types and purpose of vocations and highlighting it as a special gift from God. He urged the children to pray for vocations and to speak positively about religious life, following the example of Jesus.
Fr Kevin further encouraged the children to see altar service as a beautiful path towards the priesthood, reminding them how priests accompany and support people at every stage of life—from birth to death—and serve as a blessing to the community.
After a short snack break, Fr Richard D’Souza, parish priest of Delanthabettu, addressed the altar servers on the impact of social media cautioning them about how it can affect studies, health, and daily life, and encouraging a balanced and responsible approach.
He reminded the children to verify information before sharing, to avoid getting misled by fake news or harmful content, and to use social platforms only to spread positivity and truth.
Fr Richard also stressed the importance of face-to-face friendships, spending quality time with family, and maintaining a healthy balance between digital life and real-life relationships, so that technology becomes a tool for growth and service, not a distraction or danger.
Following the Angelus, the participants enjoyed a hearty lunch, after which Fr Ivan Madtha captivated the children with a Bible Magic Show lasting nearly 90 minutes. Through creative storytelling and magical illustrations, he presented the story of creation, key moments from the Old Testament, and the miracles and parables of Jesus, keeping the young audience entertained and inspired. Despite his physical disability, Fr Ivan stands as an inspiration to all, showing that even in the face of health challenges he continues to joyfully spread the Word of God among the faithful.
Altar servers from four parishes then shared their experiences of the camp, expressing gratitude for the enriching sessions and the warm fellowship.
Fr James D’Souza, parish priest and vicar Forane of the City Deanery, gave a heartwarming message, encouraging the altar servers to follow the example of their patron saints by serving faithfully, humbly, and with devotion. He urged them to take their responsibilities seriously on the altar, to pray daily, and to be good role models in their families, schools, and communities.
Fr James emphasized that altar service is not just a duty, but a path to grow closer to God, learn discipline, and develop leadership and compassion. He also thanked the organizers, animators, and priests of all participating parishes for their dedication and support in making the camp a meaningful experience for the young servers.
The animators briefly introduced themselves, after which Fr Jeevan Lobo expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fr Nelson Peris, the assistant parish priest and main organizer of the camp, for his dedication and efforts. Fr Nelson then delivered the vote of thanks, appreciating the support of animators, priests, and all participants, and acknowledging everyone’s contribution in making the camp a resounding success.
The camp concluded on a joyous note with the singing of the Patron Hymn and distribution of ice cream to all participants, marking the end of a day filled with faith, fun, and fellowship.