Third Annual Gathering of Franciscan Conventual Altar Servers

The parishes of the Franciscan Conventuals in the Philippines joyfully marked the third annual gathering of altar servers last January 15–17, 2026 at the St. Joseph Friary and Formation House in Tagaytay City. This year’s celebration carried special significance as it coincided with the 8th Centenary of the Transitus of St. Francis of Assisi into heaven, inspiring participants to embrace the Franciscan spirit of humility, fraternity, and joyful service. The gathering was designed to deepen the altar servers’ love for the Eucharist, strengthen fraternal communion, and encourage joyful service in the spirit of St. Francis.

Over the course of three days, the altar servers were immersed in a rich program of prayer, formation, and fellowship. Recollection sessions and talks provided spiritual nourishment, with Friar Odorico Laoreno guiding the youth through reflections on vocation discernment, Friar Maximilian Bumacod offering insights on the meaning of service in the life of the Church and Bro. Den Maycacayan one of the parish volunteers of the Franciscan parish in Binangonan Rizal giving his insights about responding to God’s call. Beyond the talks, sports activities were organized to promote teamwork and socialization, reminding the participants that fraternity is lived not only in prayer but also in shared joy and play.

The altar servers also experienced the daily rhythm of Franciscan community life, joining the friars in the celebration of the Mass and the prayer of the Divine Office, which deepened their appreciation for the liturgy and their role in it. This immersion allowed them to see their ministry not as a task but as a vocation rooted in love for Christ and His Church.

The gathering concluded with a festive dinner held outdoors under cozy lights and the cool Tagaytay weather. The evening was filled with laughter, fellowship, and talent showcases, highlighted by a spirited Sinulog dance in honor of the Feast of the Santo Niño. This joyful finale captured the essence of the event: a community of young people united in service, inspired by the example of St. Francis, and strengthened by the bonds of fraternity.