19/08/2026
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The Diocese on Sunday afternoon gathered at the Parish of St Matthewβs in Bella Vista, Ceres, for a special Servers Guild Medalling Service, bringing together clergy, altar servers, families and parishioners for a meaningful celebration of faith, service and dedication. The special occasion brought together altar servers from across the length and breadth of the Diocese, creating a beautiful display of unity and fellowship as young people who faithfully serve at the altar were recognised for their commitment.
The service was presided over by Bishop Stafford, who led the congregation in celebrating and honouring the servers for their dedication to serving at the altar and supporting the wider life and ministry of the Church. The service was a day of faith, fellowship and celebration, as Ceres witnessed the next generation of church servants proudly take their place in the life of the Diocese. The occasion was attended by members of the clergy, including the Acting Archdeacon and Guildβs Chaplain, Canon Enrico Heuvel, who joined Bishop Stafford and the parish community in celebrating the achievements and commitment of the Servers Guild.
The medalling service marked an important milestone for the servers, recognising not only their service within the Church but also the discipline, responsibility and spiritual commitment associated with their ministry. During the services, several altar servers were formally awarded medals by the Chaplain, Canon Enrico Heuvel. Five members were also specially honoured and presented with certificates of recognition for their long-standing service as altar servers. Among those recognised were members who celebrated an extraordinary milestone of 50 years of faithful service as altar servers. Their commitment and dedication are a remarkable testimony to the value of ministry and service within the Church.
As the medals were presented, the message was clear: service matters, commitment matters, and every act of faithful service leaves a lasting mark on the life of the Church. For the young servers and their families, the occasion was a proud and memorable moment as they received recognition for their faithful service. The celebration at St Matthewβs served as a reminder that the ministry of servers plays an important role in nurturing young people within the Church and encouraging them to grow in faith, discipline and service.