Ten Years of Altar Server Formation

Ten years ago today, after about a year of ramp-up, we definitively rebooted the altar server program at my old parish of Holy Rosary. This was the genesis of our training manual, and it was when I developed my own particular method of training, developing, and forming servers. I don’t know why the Lord called me to this ministry, but I am grateful that He did, as it has made my life richer and has deepened my faith.

I have now developed altar server programs in three parishes¹ and trained servers in several others. I have trained Deacons and seminarians.

I collaborated with Bishop Elliott on his book for serving at the altar. And my own book has reached thousands of kids and adults.

Taped above my desk is an old holy card with a meditation by St. John Henry Newman that constantly inspires me. It reads in part, “God has created me to do Him some definite service: He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my mission – I may never know it in this life, but I shall be told it in the next.”

I don’t know how my ministry is affecting the servers I form, much less those who see them or come in contact with them. But I hope it is to the positive. I hope that it is deepening their sacramental faith and deepening their relationship with the Lord Jesus.

Here are just a handful of images of the past decade.

1. Holy Rosary, Saint Ann, Saint Patrick, all in Tacoma.