01/11/2025
"Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me" (John 12:26).
On All Saints’ Day, the Liturgical Ministry honors the saints who serve as role models of altar servers. Emphasizing love, service, and discipline, these saints remind altar servers of their duty to humbly and willingly serve the Lord through the altar.
Saint Tarcisius was an altar server who lived in the third century, during the intense persecution of Christians under Emperor Valerian. As an altar server, he voluntarily carried the Eucharist to imprisoned Christians awaiting ex*****on. One day, on his journey to a prison, he encountered pagan boys who suspected he was carrying something valuable. Demanding to see what he held, Tarcisius refused, knowing they would degrade the Holy Eucharist. Enraged by his defiance, the boys attacked him, but he held firm, determined to protect the Eucharist with his life. Shortly after the brutal attack, he was killed and given a proper burial.
Saint Dominic Savio was a young boy who deeply loved God and His Church. He prayed often, encouraged others to pray, and never missed an opportunity to show his faith, even kneeling to pray outside in mud or snow. He served as an altar boy, went to Mass daily, and went to confession regularly. When he received his First Holy Communion at the age of seven, he said it was the happiest day of his life.
Saint John Berchmans was a Belgian Jesuit renowned for his profound faith, unwavering conviction, unwavering belief, and devotion to prayer and service. From a young age, he demonstrated a great love for God and joined the Jesuits at the age of 17, living a life marked by discipline and joy. Though he died at the age of 22, his holiness and cheerful spirit inspired many, especially young people and altar servers. He was later canonized as the patron saint of altar servers and is remembered for his devotion to God and humble service.
These saints dedicated their lives to serving the Lord. Despite their untimely deaths, their sincere commitment and steadfast faith, no matter the cost, stand as a clear testament that loving the Lord through serving at the altar is a passion. May these saints inspire us to continue to fortify our faith in God.
St. Tarcisius, pray for us.
St. Dominic Savio, pray for us.
St. John Berchmans, pray for us.
Caption by Francis Tiangco and Jaden Besustringuez
Layout by Chadrick Geronimo
