At the 4 p.m. Mass on Sunday, 18 January, the Carmelite community gathered at Whitefriar Street Church for the commissioning of altar servers — a moment of prayerful commitment and encouragement for those who serve at the altar. The Mass was celebrated by Simon Nolan, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Irish Province of the Carmelite Order.
In his homily, Fr Simon reflected on Saint John the Baptist as the one who points beyond himself to Christ. He reminded the congregation that this is the task of every Christian, and indeed of every ministry within the Church: not to draw attention to ourselves, but to direct hearts towards Jesus. This call to humility and faithful witness provided the spiritual focus for the commissioning that followed.
During the Mass, six altar servers were formally commissioned and enrolled as members of the Guild of Saint Simon Stock. Their commissioning marked more than the taking on of a practical role; it signified a commitment to serve with reverence, attentiveness, and faith, quietly assisting others to recognise the presence of the Lord in the liturgy.
Drawing on the Carmelite tradition, Fr Simon recalled Saint Simon Stock and the gift of the Scapular, given through Mary as a sign of protection and a life lived close to Christ. As the altar servers received the insignia of the Guild, bearing the words sub tuum praesidium — “under thy protection” — the congregation was reminded of Mary’s gentle role in the life of the Church. Like the saints, she never draws attention to herself, but always leads us to her Son.
The celebration concluded with a prayer drawn from the Carmelite liturgy for the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel: “Draw us after you, O Virgin Mary. We shall follow in your footsteps.” It was a fitting prayer for those newly commissioned, and for all present — a reminder that Mary remains a sure guide, leading us to Christ and drawing us ever closer to where we are meant to be.
