Altar servers encouraged to build a friendship with Jesus

By Renée Pereira
comms.camsel@catholictt.org

Every year, hundreds of altar servers from across the Archdiocese come together for one big celebration—both a joyful and reverent gathering, giving thanks for their ministry. This year’s solemn pontifical Mass took place on Sunday, November 16 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Port of Spain.

Parents, friends, and supporters also filled the Cathedral, seen smiling proudly as servers of all ages processed in and recessed out.

Archbishop Charles Jason Gordon, who presided over the Mass, shared a message that hit home for many young servers, to “make Jesus your friend”.

He reminded them that every time they step into the sanctuary—whether they’re ringing the bells, carrying the cross, or assisting the priest—they are meeting Jesus, a friend who is always present for them.

“Every time you have the opportunity to serve, see it as a blessing,” the Archbishop said. “You get to meet your friend, Jesus, around the altar.”

He encouraged altar servers not to get caught up in doing everything perfectly like standing at the right time, kneeling at the right moment, ringing the bells only to forget the most important part, that Jesus is present. “I want you to focus on who is coming to you every time you come to serve,” he said.

The Catholic News spoke with two long-serving altar servers who shared what this ministry means to them.

Kristian Luces, Coordinator of the Altar Servers Ministry at St Francis of Assisi, Sangre Grande, has served for over a decade. He described the gathering as “a profound joy,” saying events like these remind young people that the Church is much bigger than their home parish.

“For many servers, life can feel overwhelming or discouraging,” he said, “but when they stand among hundreds of their peers, something awakens: a renewed sense of purpose, belonging, and hope.”

“Seeing so many young people committed to serving at the altar fills me with deep gratitude. This ministry shaped my own journey from childhood to adulthood teaching discipline, reverence, leadership, and a love for the Eucharist. It has been a constant source of strength and direction in my life, and I see that same transformative grace touching the lives of our servers today. To serve at the altar is to grow close to Christ Himself, and gatherings like this remind us that the Church is alive, youthful, and filled with promise.”

Mary Joy, from Our Lady of Fatima, Curepe, shared similar encouragement. “Watching young people step forward with passion to serve is inspiring,” she said. “Their energy and faith show that God is still working powerfully in this generation. It gives hope for a future rooted in worship and love for Christ.”

Mary Joy (third from left) smiles with her fellow Altar Servers

To help altar servers grow spiritually, not just serve practically, the Archbishop has asked every altar server ministry to incorporate three practices:

1. Christian Meditation
2. The Examen (a daily reflection with God)
3. Offering a small daily sacrifice

The Altar Servers Council expressed thanks to the Liturgical Commission, the Catholic Youth Commission, and other bodies for their continued support.