Recount Text

Plant Tree

Many people may have seen children or teenagers wearing white or red robes during Mass, but not everyone fully understands their role. They are known as altar servers or misdinar—boys and girls who assist the priest during the celebration of the Eucharist. Their role is very important because their presence ensures that the liturgy runs in an orderly, reverent, and proper manner according to the Church’s traditions. The term misdinar itself comes from the Dutch word misdienaar, which means “mass helper.” Besides technical duties such as carrying candles, preparing liturgical items, or receiving the offerings from the congregation, an altar server is also expected to be a model of reverence, prayerfulness, and a willing heart. From my experience at St. Melania Parish, being an altar server is not just about liturgical movements, but also about learning to care for others and the environment, working together, and being responsible.

I have been an altar server at St. Melania Parish for about a year, and during that time, I have gained many valuable experiences. The altar server community here is very friendly and welcoming; there is no difference between new members and those who have been serving for a long time. This sense of family makes me happy to be part of this ministry. One of the most memorable activities for me was the tree-planting event on November 9, held specifically for the altar servers. The event took place in Sapan Gedebage, on land owned by Father Jumi, and aimed to instill environmental awareness amid increasing ecological damage. We departed together from the parish around eight in the morning and arrived two hours later. Upon arrival, we were divided into several groups to plant tree seedlings and participate in station-to-station games. My group planted first; each member planted one seedling, resulting in a total of seven trees. Even though the seedlings were small, we hoped they would one day grow tall and be beneficial. After planting, we continued with three game stations that required teamwork and attentiveness. I mistakenly searched in the wrong place during the first station, which reduced my playing time and made my results less than optimal, but I still enjoyed the entire activity. After finishing all activities, we had lunch together and enjoyed refreshing grape pudding afterward.

This event became one of the most meaningful experiences during my time as an altar server. It strengthened our sense of togetherness and taught me the importance of cooperation and caring for the environment. I am proud to be part of the altar server community at St. Melania Parish, and I hope to continue participating in positive activities that contribute to both nature and others.