Come Closer to God by Serving at His Altar.
The Word Made Flesh Altar Server Retreat is a day of faith, fellowship and formation for altar servers in grades 6–12 from across the Diocese of Erie. Whether you have been serving for years or are just beginning, this retreat offers an opportunity to deepen your love for the Mass, grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ and better understand the important role altar servers play in the life of the Church.
Join Bishop Lawrence T. Persico, diocesan clergy, seminarians and consecrated religious for a day centered on the Eucharist and the beauty of serving at God's altar.
Retreat Details
Saturday, October 17
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
St. Tobias Church
Brockway, Pennsylvania
Who Can Attend?
Students in grades 6–12 who currently serve—or are interested in serving—as altar servers.
Cost
FREE! Lunch is included.
Registration Deadline: September 30
BUS TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE
Free bus transportation will be available for participants attending the Altar Server Retreat on Saturday, October 17.
• St. Francis Xavier Parish — McKean
8880 Main St., McKean, PA 16426
Bus departs: 7:30 a.m.
Bus returns: 6:30 p.m.
Bus returns: 6:30 p.m.
• Beloved Disciple Church — Grove City
1310 S. Center St. Ext., Grove City, PA 16127
Pickup time: approximately 8:30 a.m.
Return: 4:30 p.m.
Return: 4:30 p.m.
• St. Tobias Church — Brockway
1135 Hewitt St., Brockway, PA 15824
Retreat: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Return transportation
The bus will depart St. Tobias Church following the retreat. Participants will be returned to Beloved Disciple Church in Grove City or St. Francis Xavier Parish in McKean, based on the location selected during registration.
The bus will also make a dinner stop at the Grove City Outlets for participants continuing on the return trip to the Erie/McKean area.
Please note: Return times are estimated and may vary because the bus will be making stops along the route. Parents and guardians should plan to arrive early when picking up participants.
Bus seating is limited to 50 participants and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. The bus capacity of 50 is confirmed in the transportation correspondence.
Registration deadline: September 30
What You'll Experience
Throughout the day participants will:
• Deepen their understanding of the Mass and the Eucharist
• Learn how altar servers participate in the Church's sacred liturgy
• Hear inspiring presentations from clergy and special guests
• Spend time in Eucharistic Adoration and prayer
• Celebrate Adoration with Bishop Persico
• Meet seminarians and consecrated religious
• View and venerate sacred relics
• Build friendships with altar servers from throughout the Diocese of Erie
Whether you're serving at your parish every weekend or are just beginning your journey, you'll leave with a deeper appreciation for the privilege of serving at the altar.
Why Altar Servers Matter
Serving at the altar is more than carrying a candle or holding the Roman Missal. Altar servers assist at the Church's most sacred celebration—the Holy Mass—and grow in reverence, discipleship and service to Christ.
Many priests and religious first discovered God's call while serving at the altar. Every young person who participates is invited to grow closer to Jesus and consider how God may be calling them to serve His Church.
Help Form the Next Generation of Disciples
One of the greatest gifts we can offer our young people is an opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may attend?
Students in grades 6–12 from throughout the Diocese of Erie.
Do I need to be an experienced altar server?
No. Students who are interested in serving or who are new to serving are welcome.
Is there a cost?
No. The retreat is completely free, including lunch.
What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, a positive attitude and a desire to grow in your faith. Additional details will be provided after registration.