Alter Serving
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Durand, IL 61019
Job Description: Throughout the course of the year, I assist the priest during mass at St. Mary’s Church. This includes any holy days that take place as well as some weekly masses. If a holy day is to occur, a special practice may be called to rehearse the order, figure out what to do, and other such things. I have been doing this since 5th grade, and I will continue to do this until I graduate high school.
Skills: In order to alter serve, several skills are needed. However, attentiveness is probably the biggest one. I have to be quite attentive during mass because certain tasks have to be performed when the priest says or does certain actions. Another skill that I have obtained when alter serving is reliability. As I grow older, I have been assigned to alter serve at more important masses and help train the new alter servers. If I am scheduled to serve, I am expected to show up or find a replacement to serve in my place.
Insight: This type of community service has shown me how to serve the community as well as God. This is something that I don’t dread doing, and I enjoy helping the new kids. After every time I alter serve, I feel rejuvenated spiritually. This is something that I will continue to do for as long as possible so as to continue serving the Lord and my community.