Twelve Altar Servers were recently enrolled into the Guild of St Stephen at St Thomas More’s, Parson Cross, and St Mary’s, High Green. Fr Callistus, the parish priest, presented the Altar Servers for enrolment and Deacon Tony Strike, Diocesan Director of the Guild, presented them with Guild medals. The young people were thanked for serving, for the regular commitment they make, and for witnessing to their faith by what they do. Their parents were thanked for encouraging the young people to come to church and supporting them to take an active part in the liturgy.
The Guild of St Stephen exists to provide altar servers with a greater understanding of what they are doing, so that they may serve with increasing reverence and prayerfulness. Also, to unite servers of different parishes and dioceses for their mutual support and encouragement. The Altar Servers enrolled at St. Mary’s and St Thomas More’s promised to serve regularly, at the times when they are asked and to serve with care and reverence.
They heard that a good server is the one who not only knows what to do, but also understands why it is being done. If you wish to become an Altar Server then do talk to your parish Master of Ceremonies, or to the parish priest or deacon. If your parish has Altar Servers who are not yet enrolled in the Guild contact Deacon Tony about having an enrollment ceremony. It is a great way to support our young people to be active witnesses to their faith. Our servers wear their medal, and a sign of their service. The motto of the Guild, “Cvi Servire Regnare Est,” which means “To Serve is to Reign,” is located around the edge of the front of the medal. The Latin words “Sancti Stephani Archi Soldalitas,” or “Archconfraternity of Saint Stephen,” are located around the edge on the back. Tony Strike
