One of my favorite stories Bishop Murry often shares is his call to become an altar server when he was a 
young boy. This call not only led him to the Catholic faith but also to the priesthood and eventually to become our bishop. I love this story because it proves that when we answer God’s call, it can lead us to places we never imagined.
Pope Francis acknowledged the important role of altar servers during a special evening of prayer that drew 9,000 young people to St. Peter’s Square. Serving at the altar, the Pope told the young people, is a privileged way to draw closer to Jesus, which in turn “enables you to open your self to others, to journey together, to set demanding goals and to find strength to achieve them.”
I would like to suggest that all parents should consider encouraging their children to become altar servers. There are many positive things your child will experience being part of this ministry. They will be engaged in parish life, experience new friendships, learn discipline, and have the best seat in the house!
We are so blessed to have so many young people who answered God’s call to serve at the altar. All our children, (end of Gr. 2 and up), are welcome to serve! If you have any questions, feel free to talk with Fr. Mike or myself.
God bless, Deacon John