Altar Servers Commissioned in Solemn Ceremony at St. Thomas Parish, Sandor, Vasai

Vasai, Feb. 13, 2025 – St. Thomas Parish, Sandor, Vasai, hosted an Altar Servers Rally and Commissioning Ceremony on February 9, to encourage children to serve at the altar and become part of the liturgical ministry. The event, presided over by Fr. Raymond Rumao, parish priest of St. Thomas Parish, included a special Holy Mass and the commissioning of new altar servers in the presence of their parents. The ceremony also honoured senior altar servers who had dedicated their time to the ministry in previous years.

The ceremony began with a solemn procession, during which the altar servers to be commissioned entered the church. This was followed by the celebration of the Holy Mass by Fr. Raymond, along with Fr. Sanjay Ferreira and Fr. Stephen Machado, all of whom serve in the same parish.

During his homily, Fr. Raymond emphasised the importance of nurturing young individuals in church service. “Children are our future. Let them come to the altar; let them serve the Church," he said. "Through this event, we are sowing the seeds for our future ministers—whether as lay or consecrated ministers,” he added, underscoring the purpose of the rally and commissioning ceremony.

Following the homily, the commissioning of new altar servers took place. The young altar servers were vested by Fr. Raymond and formally welcomed into the ministry. After the Mass, both newly commissioned altar servers and senior altar servers were felicitated with certificates, gifts, and refreshments as a token of appreciation for their service.

The event served as a significant step in fostering a sense of dedication and commitment among young members of the parish. Through this initiative, St. Thomas Parish continues to strengthen its altar-serving ministry, ensuring that the tradition of liturgical service remains vibrant and meaningful.

By Catholic Connect Reporter