The guild of St Stephen is one way to bring young people into the service of the altar. Here, they acquire the skills to assist the priest at Mass and other Liturgical and para-liturgical activities. They also learn to become the future leaders of the church. Here at Our Lady Queen of Heaven and St Oswald’s church, we are privileged to have thirteen altar servers enrolled on the Guild of St Stephen on the 10 November. From their desire to be close to God on the altar, some of them might further develop aspirations to commit to God in some permanent vocations such as the priesthood and religious life. To be enrolled as Altar servers is a blessing for the parish community in which the newly enrolled will in their little way inspire many more individuals. Part of this inspiration is ingrained in their activities. This includes preparing the sacristy and the Altar before mass. Carrying the cross and candles during services, holding the Missal, and guiding the readers on the sanctuary. They will also help with the presentation of gifts. That said, they will need our prayers and support. We are happy to welcome them to the parish community and the church looks forward to their continued participation in the life of the church. Sr Anne Ihunnia
