For 36 years, the Greater Toronto Area Serra Clubs have been recognizing the service and achievements of altar servers from parishes across the Archdiocese of Toronto through the annual Bishop’s Altar Server Awards for Service.

Each year, local churches are invited to nominate altar servers who display a sense of responsibility, leadership and dedication to their duties. The selected servers are honoured in a celebration, which includes a Mass with their regional auxiliary bishop, a presentation of medals and a reception with families, friends and pastors.

Four celebrations were held in 2023, honouring a total of 583 altar servers from 110 parishes.

Photo: Bishop Nguyen with altar servers from St. John the Evangelist Parish

Most Rev. Vincent Nguyen, Auxiliary Bishop for the Eastern Region, presided over the Mass and celebration on October 14 at Precious Blood Parish in Scarborough. Sponsored by Serra Club of Durham Region and Serra Club of Markham Scarborough, 117 altar servers were honoured from 24 parishes.

Photo: Recipients of the Altar Server Award from the Northern Region

Most Rev. John Boissonneau, Auxiliary Bishop for the Northern Region, presided over the Mass and celebration on October 21 at St. Clare of Assisi Parish in Woodbridge. Sponsored by Serra Club of Toronto Central, 145 altar servers were honoured from 21 parishes.

Photo: Bishop Kasun with altar servers from St. Thomas Aquinas Parish

Most Rev. Robert Kasun, Auxiliary Bishop for the Central Region, presided over the Mass and celebration on October 28 at St. Paul's Basilica in Toronto. Sponsored by Serra Club of Toronto Downtown, 134 altar servers were honoured from 29 parishes.

Photo: Bishop Camilleri with altar servers from Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

Most Rev. Ivan Camilleri, Auxiliary Bishop for the Western Region, presided over the Mass and celebration on November 25 at Our Lady of the Airways Parish in Mississauga. Sponsored by Serra Club of Toronto West and Serra Club of North Peel, 187 altar servers were honoured from 36 parishes.

Serving at the altar is an important responsibility and visible expression of faith in action. We are grateful to all the altar servers who faithfully serve throughout the Archdiocese of Toronto.

For information about the Serra Club and their work in promoting and fostering vocations, please visit www.serracanada.com.