Altar servers enjoy faith-based fellowship at Aloysius Fest

By Carissa Krautscheid

Youth from across Tucson gathered at the Chancery for a fun and faith-filled retreat, specifically for altar servers who actively serve at Mass in parishes throughout the diocese. The retreat was named “Aloysius Fest”, after Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, who gave up a life of wealth and comfort in order to selflessly serve the sick and poor – even from the young age of seven.

At the retreat, boys and girls ranged in age from seven to 17. Various ages were grouped together for the day, to aid and inspire one another during activities. “Our primary objective is to foster fellowship among altar servers,” said Fr. Alan Valencia, director of vocations. “The day was filled with collective prayer, insightful discussions on the significance of serving, reflections on the Scriptures, and, of course, plenty of enjoyable activities.”

Father Abundio Colazo-Lopez, assistant director for vocations, introduced Catholic worship, the importance of serving during the Mass, and the call to be an altar server. Throughout the retreat, the importance of vocational discernment was emphasized, as something that God needs all young people to do in order to learn how is calling them to serve.

The priests and seminarians played against the altar servers in a fun rally to try on vestments in order to proceed to the next challenge. The first team to finish rang the bells that are used at Mass, which altar servers are very familiar with.

Seminarian Carlos Nagore offered a talk on diocesan priesthood. Father Manu Franco-Gomez, O.Carm., diocesan director of youth ministry, spoke to boys in eighth grade and younger about religious life. The boys even had the chance to try on the Carmelite habit. Sister Gladys Echenique shared her thoughts on religious life with the younger girls. Meanwhile, Sister Mary Ann Spanjers joined all the high school teens in a discussion about priesthood and religious life, and the importance of actually making a decision.

All of the attendees were altar servers at a special Mass with Bishop Weisenburger. Youth were able to connect with peers across the city, celebrate their service to the Catholic Church, and join in fellowship and fun, all centered on faith. 

Two upcoming retreats will be offered to altar servers in Yuma on August 3 and in Casa Grande on September 9. To register and for more information, please visit https://diocesetucson.org/altar-servers-retreat.