The 111th Altar Servers Day was solemnly and joyfully celebrated at St Sebastian Church,
Bendur, on 23rd November 2025. Approximately 70 dedicated altar servers took part in the
thanksgiving Eucharist, serving with reverence and devotion at the altar.
The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Osmond Roshan D’Souza, Assistant Parish Priest
and Spiritual Director of the Altar Servers Sodality, along with the Vicar Rev. Fr. Walter

D’Souza. The altar servers beautifully carried out liturgical responsibilities such as cross-
bearing, incense duties, candle procession, offertory assistance, and bell service with discipline

and grace—showcasing their sincere commitment to the parish liturgical ministry.
Special appreciation was extended to Animators Mr. Oswald Fernandes and Sr. Felcy (Bethany)
who have been continually training, mentoring, and guiding the children with patience and
dedication throughout the year.
A significant moment of the event was the commissioning of 17 newly joined altar servers from
the 4th and 5th standards. They were officially inducted during a solemn commissioning ritual
led by the Spiritual Director and Vicar, Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, who blessed them and
entrusted them with their sacred duty of serving at the Lord’s altar.
Following the Mass, a short but meaningful programme was held in the church hall. The guest
of honour, Mr. Oswald Pais, delivered an inspiring message, reflecting on the virtues of the
patron saint of altar servers—St. John Berchmans, highlighting his purity, dedication, and
unwavering commitment to serving God. He also shared fond memories from his own
childhood of serving as an altar boy, motivating the young servers to serve with joy and
enthusiasm.
Vicar Rev. Fr. Walter D’Souza, in his address, emphasized the need for discipline, humility,
and piousness among altar servers who are given the privilege to stand closest to the Eucharistic
mystery. He encouraged the children to not only read but also write the Word of God—inviting
all altar servers to begin writing the Holy Bible by hand. Those who successfully complete this
unique spiritual exercise will be honoured during the next Annual Day in 2026.
In recognition of dedicated service, 11 altar servers who attended the highest number of daily
Masses throughout the year were felicitated with appreciation and blessings.

The celebration concluded with refreshments served to all children, parents, animators, and
clergy, fostering a spirit of fellowship and gratitude. The day stood as a meaningful reminder
of the noble vocation of altar service, helping young hearts grow closer to God through prayer,
discipline, and devotion.