Called to serve, serving with love

By Tehya Archibald (17 years),

La Divina Pastora RC, Siparia

Altar server (2017–2026)

I always admired the altar, especially on Sunday mornings when sunlight perfectly illuminates the sanctuary’s stained-glass windows. As a child, I gazed admiringly at altar servers kneeling close to the Eucharist during consecration. I developed a deep longing to find a way. In June 2017, at nine years old, I officially became an altar server at the La Divina Pastora RC Church (LDPRC), Siparia.

It is a real privilege to serve within the LDPRC, Altar Servers Community. Over the years, I learnt to appreciate the quiet reverence of being so close to the Eucharist and assisting in leading God’s children closer to Him. Serving on and off the altar strengthened my Catholic faith, motivating me to lead—not with my understanding—but God’s. I learnt to prioritise God in everything I do whether in school or at home with my family and friends. When I face temptations and moments of impatience, sitting near the altar waiting to serve keeps me grounded and calm as I meditate on the question, ‘What would Jesus do?’

Serving at Holy Mass involves precision and discipline: presenting the Roman Missal, lighting coals for the thurible, mastering the names and uses of sacred vessels, and ringing the sanctuary bells during consecration. Beyond the sanctuary, servers are responsible for cleaning holy vessels and attending monthly training.

After almost a decade of service, I have accumulated unforgettable memories—from parish fundraisers like Harvest Hoopla and Bingo to retreats, field trips, and visits to Jubilee sites. Yet the most cherished gift has been the spiritual family built along the way.

Serving as a senior altar server and training the incoming cohorts brings everything full circle. Being one of the dozens of servers processing through the streets of Siparia on Feast Day remains an incredible blessing I will cherish forever.

Growing into a senior role means serving as an example on and off the altar. Thankfully, LDPRC maintains a dedicated team of senior altar servers and mentors who guide us through every stage—helping us navigate mistakes during Holy Mass, handle public scrutiny gracefully, and uphold our calling in our daily lives.

This shared commitment to service at LDPRC was on full display during our 2026 Altar Servers Workshop. Recognising the vital role young people play in the Church, La Divina Pastora Parish—led by Fr Santhosh Puliyammakkal (MSFS)—hosted a series of workshops throughout the July and August vacation. The workshop initiative brought together 63 altar servers for faith development, practical training, and fellowship.

The topics explored during the sessions included ‘God’s Love’, ‘Knowing Jesus through the Eucharist’, and ‘Serving Faithfully’. Participants examined the modern ‘idols’ that compete for priority in young lives, while reflecting on how reverence at the altar shapes character outside the church walls.

The instruction was intentionally hands-on. Through team exercises, servers tested their knowledge of sacred objects before practising in the main church. A full Mass rehearsal allowed everyone to step into various roles while observers offered constructive feedback.

Small-group discussions touched on responsibility, discipline, respect, and dependability, giving servers space to share their hopes for personal growth.

Fellowship was equally central. Football, volleyball, and board games gave servers a chance to connect outside their formal roles at Mass, culminating in a shared dinner on the final day.

The programme concluded with a special Altar Servers Mass on September 5. Altar servers and their families gathered to celebrate and re-affirm their commitment.

As the younger servers shared their experiences, the fact that mentorship matters was reinforced. Kenia Peters spoke movingly about overcoming shyness through the Altar Servers Ministry, while building discipline and a sense of belonging. Similarly, Tyhania Greenidge reflected on her growth in leadership via the Altar Servers Ministry, emphasising the importance of taking small steps and striving to be someone others can depend on.

The workshop deepened both the technical readiness and community bonds of all LDPRC altar servers. We now continue our ministry with a simple, enduring reminder: “We are called to serve, and we serve with love.”