How Serving at the Altar Changed My Faith
When I first started altar serving, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought it would simply be helping Father Marino, holding a book here, carrying a candle there, and maybe setting a few things on the altar. But the truth is, serving at the altar has done far more than teach me where to stand or what to do—it has transformed the way I see the Mass, and even the way I live my faith.
Standing so close to the mystery of the Eucharist has given me a deeper reverence than I ever imagined. When you watch the priest prepare the gifts, when you hear the words of consecration just feet away, when you kneel and know you are in the presence of Christ Himself—it changes you. It no longer feels like something happening “out there” that I’m watching. I feel like I’m part of it, caught up in the worship of heaven.
Altar serving has also taught me humility. It’s not about being seen or doing something impressive. In fact, most of what you do goes unnoticed by the congregation. And that’s exactly the point. Service at the altar reminds me that serving God often means working quietly, faithfully, without recognition—because it’s not about us, it’s about Him.
One of the greatest blessings has been seeing the Mass through new eyes. Before, I knew the order of the liturgy, but I didn’t really grasp the richness of each part. Now, when I hear the prayers or see the gestures, I understand them more deeply. It’s as if God has pulled back the veil a little, showing me just how sacred this gift is.
Most of all, serving at the altar has deepened my love for Christ and His Church. It has made me hunger for holiness, desire to pray more, and want to give more of myself. Every time I put that surplice over my black robe or light the candles, I’m reminded that I’m not just “helping out”—I’m serving the King of Kings.
If you ever feel distant from Mass or like your faith has gone a bit stale, I encourage you to find a way to serve. Maybe not at the altar, but somewhere in the parish. When you give of yourself in service, God gives back in ways you could never expect.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for allowing me to serve at Your altar. Help me always to approach this role with reverence, humility, and love. May every act of service bring me closer to You and inspire others to give their lives in service to Your Church. Amen.
Scripture
“Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere.” – Psalm 84:10
