Jaipur: In an effort to nurture reverence and discipline among young liturgical ministers, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Jaipur conducted a focused formation programme for altar servers on April 19 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Annunciation. The initiative aimed to strengthen the spiritual awareness and practical competence of those serving at the altar.
The session brought together 21 altar servers and was guided by Fr. Vinod Kujur, Vice Rector of Maria Sadan Seminary, along with Fr. Melwin D’Souza, Parish Priest. Their training centred on helping participants better understand the sacred responsibility entrusted to them during the celebration of the Holy Mass.
The programme began with a theological reflection on altar serving as a vocation, underlining the need for devotion, attentiveness, and a deep sense of responsibility. The young servers were introduced to the meaning and proper handling of key liturgical vessels such as the chalice, paten, ciborium, thurible, and cruets, with each explained in the context of its role in the Eucharistic celebration.
A major portion of the training was dedicated to practical formation. Participants were taken step by step through their duties from preparation in the sacristy to assisting the priest during the liturgy. Instructions covered vestment assistance, altar preparation, and participation in the entrance procession, with particular emphasis on maintaining proper order and coordination.
Trainers also highlighted important ritual actions, including the correct method of ringing the bell during the elevation following the traditional “3 × 3 rule,” symbolizing honor to the Holy Trinity. Demonstrations on the proper use of incense and the coordinated offering of wine and water further reinforced the importance of precision and reverence in every gesture.
Discipline at the altar formed a central theme throughout the session. The servers were instructed on maintaining proper posture, observing silence, and avoiding distractions during the liturgy. Practical guidelines such as arriving early, keeping silence in the sacristy, and handling sacred objects with utmost care were strongly emphasized.
Organizers noted that the formation programme helped correct common errors, clarify responsibilities, and elevate the standard of liturgical service. The initiative is expected to enable altar servers to participate more meaningfully and prayerfully in the Church’s worship.