The Altar Boy's function is to serve the priest and through him, God Himself. There is no function to which he might ever aspire, except the Priesthood itself, which will bring him to a more lofty service. The Altar Boy represents the multitude of the Faithful who assist at Holy Mass, responding for them, praying for them and, through his ringing of the bells, ensuring that all present are attentive at the most important moments. No layman, regardless of age, can be closer to God than within the Sanctuary during the Holy Sacrifice. He who serves the Mass also kneels, quite truly, beside Saint Mary Magdalen, Saint John, and the Blessed Virgin Mary at the foot of the Cross.

At Saint Thomas Becket Church the crew of Altar Boys are all members of the Archconfraternity Of Saint Stephen. This Altar Servers' Guild is a means of perfection for all the boys and men who serve by special dispensation in the attire of clerics. It provides a measuring system for advancement, incentives to enhance knowledge and skill, and encouragement to piety and devotion.

Membership in the Archconfraternity is open to any boy or man who has made his first communion and wants to serve in God's Sanctuary. It is primarily for the boys, though, for they have a life's choice ahead of them, and if, by serving at the Altar, they become more receptive to a call from God to His Holy Priesthood, then the guild's fruits will be bountiful.

If your sons do not fall in love with the Mass, how will you be assured of a Priest to bring you the Sacraments on your deathbed?