More Than a Duty

August is Altar Servers Month, and I take this opportunity to look back with gratitude on my more than eight years of serving as an altar server at San Isidro Labrador Parish of Alabel, Sarangani Province.

When I first started, it was not a common routine for young people like me. I had to make sacrifices, especially waking up early, and I often had to battle with fear and shyness in front of people. Standing at the altar was not easy—I was nervous about making mistakes and unsure if I was worthy to serve. Yet through God’s grace, I gradually learned that serving was not about perfection, but about offering myself fully to the Lord.

Over the years, this ministry has shaped me in ways I never imagined. It taught me humility, discipline, and the importance of being present not just physically, but spiritually, during every Mass. It allowed me to experience the liturgy more deeply, to understand the richness of our Catholic faith, and to witness firsthand the beauty of our traditions.

The Church dedicates this month of August to altar servers, recognizing the vital role they play in the celebration of the Eucharist. It is a reminder that we are not simply helpers at Mass—we are part of the sacred work of making the liturgy beautiful, solemn, and meaningful for the whole community. In fact, the celebration of Altar Servers Month is often linked to the memory of St. John Berchmans, the patron saint of altar servers, whose example of purity, devotion, and dedication continues to inspire us. As Pope St. John Paul II once said, serving at the altar is a unique way of drawing closer to Christ and a holy privilege that leads to a deeper friendship with Him.

Looking back, I am grateful not only for the chance to serve but also for the people who guided and supported me along the way—our parish priests, mentors, fellow altar servers, and of course, my family, who encouraged me despite the early mornings and long hours.

As we celebrate Altar Servers Month here at San Isidro Labrador Parish of Alabel, Sarangani Province, I also want to encourage today’s young people to consider joining this ministry. It may not always be easy—you will make sacrifices, and you will be challenged—but the blessings you will receive are far greater than the difficulties you will face. Serving God at the altar is one of the most meaningful journeys you can take as a young Catholic, and it will strengthen your faith for a lifetime.

ABOUT the Author:

Christian Jay S. Laya is a licensed Professional Teacher from Alabel, Sarangani Province. He currently serves as the Senior Tourism Operations Officer and Municipal Information Officer (designate) of the local government unit. He earned his undergraduate degree, Bachelor of Arts in History, cum laude, from Mindanao State University–General Santos City. He has also completed the academic requirements for a Master of Arts in Philippine Studies and is presently pursuing a Master in Public Administration, major in Local and Regional Governance Administration, at the same university. A writer, community journalist, and cultural heritage advocate, he is deeply committed to preserving and promoting local history and traditions.