Fidelis ENWEMEKA

Seven candidates were formally inducted into the Mass Servers’ Ministry at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Iganmode Road, Ota, Ogun State, Abeokuta Diocese, during the 6:30 a.m. Holy Mass on Sunday, August 23, 2026. The newly inducted Mass Servers are: Bello Benedicta, Ikezahu Vera, Ezugwu David, Vodonu Victor, Vodonu John Paul, Iberiche Fredrick and Holonu Andrew.

Speaking on the formation process, the Director of Religious Education at the parish, Rev. Sr. Mary Abodunrin, DHS, explained that the candidates successfully completed a rigorous six-month programme of initial formation. She noted that admission into the Mass Servers’ Ministry is open to individuals aged 13 years and above. Academic qualifications range from holders of primary, secondary, and tertiary education certificates, including those with vocational skills. According to her, the ultimate requirement is a sincere desire to serve God for the glorification of His holy name and the sanctification of souls.

 

Rev. Sr. Abodunrin further emphasized that anyone aspiring to become an altar server must be willing to submit to the will of God and cultivate virtues essential for sacred service. These include intelligence, faithfulness, willingness to assist during liturgical celebrations, orderliness, obedience, cleanliness, generosity, good character, prayerfulness, moral integrity, and profound reverence for all that is holy and sacred.

Performing the induction ceremony, the Parish Priest, Very Rev. Fr. Clement Ajibola Ashade, congratulated the newly inducted servers and prayed that God would continually guide, strengthen, and bless them in their ministry. He also expressed gratitude to their parents and guardians for encouraging and supporting them in answering the call to serve at the altar.

The ceremony was a joyful occasion for the parish community, highlighting the Church’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young people in faith, discipline, and dedicated service to God.