A Foremost and Seasoned Author on Church's Spirituality and Prayers, Mr E. C. Afeyodion has charged the Altar Servers of the need to re-awaken their spirituality and get themselves acquainted with the Holy Scriptures and Doctrines of the Church while rendering service to God.

Mr Afeyodion gave this charge while delivering a talk to the members of the Altar Servers Association of St. Agnes Catholic Church, Apete, Ibadan on Saturday, 14th September, 2024 titled, "Spiritual Awareness and the Importance of Being an Altar Server".

Spiritual Awareness according to him means the journey of being conscious and connected to one's inner self, the universe and one's Creator (God) by engaging in mindful meditation, showing love and compassion, only then one can undergo transformative experience that boosts one's sense of purpose and relationship with others.

It is also a process of getting to know your true self, an ancient collective experience that acknowledges life's interconnectedness, beliefs and values.

A spiritual process which has the power to break down old, stubborn, negative behaviours and thought patterns as empathy should necessarily be imbibed as one adjusts to this new reality while a positive support system would be crucial to reinforce the need for a spiritual transformation. 

To start the journey of self discovery and acceptance, self reflection with mindfulness and meditation are crucial to empower one's soul and find connection to the unity of life.

Mr Afeyodion, who is the Parish Vocation Commission Chairman further disclosed that human spirituality is composed of three aspects namely, relationships, values and life purpose. He made reference to the book of Ephesians 6:12 where we are made to view the world spiritually.

That "our struggle is not against flesh and blood but against the rulers and authorities and their dark powers that govern this world.” We are struggling against the spirits and supernatural forces of evil. 

He stated that the importance of the Altar Servers in the Church cannot be over-emphasized as they assist the Priest at Mass and other liturgical celebrations making worship more reverential, efficient and beautiful as the ministry of Altar servers gives the members the ample opportunity to get firsthand experience of the liturgy and the life of the Church which can inspire its members to consider a vocation to the Priesthood or Religious life.

The Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Edward Olojede while appreciating the Guest Speaker for honouring the invitation encouraged the Servers to put in their best and be disciplined in their service to God and to His people, only then they can grow spiritually as an individual and collectively. The participants had indoor games after the talk as a form of recess and was concluded by a general quiz amongst the participants.