ALTAR SERVICE MINISTRY

Pope John Paul II said this to altar servers gathered in Rome in 2001: "The altar server occupies a privileged place in the liturgical celebration. The altar server presents him/herself to a community and experiences first-hand that Jesus Christ is present and active in every liturgical act. Jesus is present when the community comes together to pray and render praise to God. Jesus is present in the Word of sacred Scripture. Jesus is present above all in the Eucharist under the signs of bread and wine. He acts through the priest, who, in the person of Christ, celebrates the holy Mass and administers the sacraments.

"Therefore in the liturgy, you are much more than simple helpers of the parish priest. Above all, you are servers of Jesus Christ, of the eternal High Priest. Thus, you, altar servers, are called in particular to be young friends of Jesus. Be determined to go deeper and to cultivate this friendship with him. You will discover that in Jesus you have found a true friend for life."

At SHJ, altar servers undergo training and usually start off as the Incense Server. This gives them the opportunity to take on an easy role first and then learn the other duties ie: Bell, Water and Lead Server. We encourage those who have taken First Holy Communion to join us. If you are interested, please contact: Carol Andrew.