120 Altar Servers Gather for Salesian Convention in Madurai

Madurai, September 30, 2026: A two-day convention brought together 120 altar servers from 10 Salesian parishes of the INT Province in Madurai, combining liturgical formation, prayer and fellowship with a public witness of faith.

The Altar Servers Convention 2026, organised by Christodayam – Don Bosco Faith Renewal Centre at Don Bosco ITI on September 26 and 27, sought to strengthen the young participants in their ministry and deepen their understanding of liturgical service.

A highlight of the gathering was a pilgrimage to the Lourdes Shrine on September 27. The servers, dressed in their uniforms and carrying placards with parish names, Scripture messages and Marian slogans, prayed the Rosary as they walked from Don Bosco ITI to the shrine.

Fr Doss Kennedy SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Trichy, presided over the Eucharistic celebration at the shrine and encouraged the young servers to remain committed to their ministry.

The convention also offered formation on the meaning of serving at the altar, the liturgical year, its colours and symbols, and religious life and vocation discernment. Fr Albert SDB, Fr Soosai Adimai SDB and Jerald led the sessions.

Sports, games, cultural activities and Eucharistic Adoration formed part of the wider programme, providing opportunities for interaction among the servers from different parishes.

Savariarpalayam Parish, Dindigul, won the Revolving Trophy for Best Participation. Lalgudi Manakkal and Alangulam Kalavasal secured the second and third positions respectively. Fr Robert Simon SDB, Rector of Don Bosco ITI, presented the trophy, which was unveiled by Fr Doss Kennedy.

The convention also recognised long-standing altar servers. Princy of Lourdes Shrine, Madurai, was honoured for 12 years of service, while Jason of Bosco Maiyam, Pallithammam, was recognised for 11 years.

The gathering concluded with gifts for the participants and appreciation for the parish priests, animators, Don Bosco ITI community and Christodayam team.

The convention highlighted the role of altar serving not merely as a liturgical responsibility but as an opportunity for young people to grow in faith, community and openness to vocation.

By Catholic Connect Reporter