They are our hope

The Annual Camp of Altar Servants of the Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria, Egypt

Sc. Fiston Muhiwa, Mccj

From Wednesday, August 6th, to Sunday, August 10th, the Apostolic Vicariate of Alexandria, Egypt, held its annual camp for altar servants under the theme “You Are My Hope”. This theme, inspired by Psalm 71:5“For you are my hope, Lord God” was chosen in line with this year’s Jubilee theme, “Pilgrims of Hope.”

Indeed, our hope is not in vain; we have countless reasons to be confident in it. The Psalm reminds us that the Lord Himself is our hope, the One who gives us reasons to trust in Him. Among these signs, is the presence of young boys and girls, faithfully serving at His altar. This is a living proof that the Lord continues to sustain His Church.

These young boys and young girls, devoted to the service at the altar where the Holy Eucharist, source and summit of the Church’s life is celebrated, are a guarantee of a bright future for the Church. It is for this reason that I have entitled this reflection “They Are Our Hope.” Truly, altar servants embody hope for the pilgrim Church on earth, journeying toward the second coming of Christ. They are a sign that there will always be those ready to serve God’s people through the ministry of the altar.

This gathering serves as a reminder that we must nurture the faith of the young, for the Church’s future is entrusted to them. Growing up in a world filled with diverse challenges and influences, these children and are a blessing to us as Church. It is the responsibility of every member of the Church to cherish and guide these innocent souls, helping them to mature in faith and character.

The camp’s program offered a holistic formation, encompassing both spiritual and human development:

• Spiritual Formation – Given their closeness to the altar, altar servants are called to grow in theological virtues, deepening their relationship with the God they serve. Alongside talks on spiritual growth and dedicated moments of prayer, they participated in daily Mass, celebrated by Fr. Mina Anwar, who oversees the altar servers for the Vicariate. They were also honored by the presence of His Excellency Mgr. Claudio Lurati, Apostolic Vicar of Alexandria, Egypt.
• Human Formation – As young people seeking meaning and purpose in life, the participants engaged in sessions on human maturity and the cultivation of human virtues. Activities fostering socialization helped them learn to live as brothers and sisters in Christ, rooted in mutual respect and love. Games and socio-cultural activities added joy and fellowship to the experience, for joy itself is a sign of hope.

Through these young servers, the service of the altar is enriched and enlivened. They are a seedbed for future vocations whether to the priesthood, religious life, or Christian family life. They inspire us to believe that when Christ returns, He will find His Church vibrant, faithful, and alive.