a) What are the Beatitudes?
The Beatitudes are the standards set by Christ for his followers, leading them to true happiness on earth and in the world to come. They are called “Beatitudes” because they begin with the word “blessed” or “happy,” and end with the assurance of a reward for the practice of a certain virtue. The Church has traditionally listed them as eight.
The eight Beatitudes are:
i. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
ii. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
iii. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
iv. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
v. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
vi. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
vii. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
viii. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
After stating the Beatitudes, Jesus concludes, “Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven”.
b) Why should an Altar Server know and live the Beatitudes?
The Beatitudes show the Altar Server the actions and attitudes that Christians should have, if they are to practice Jesus’ commandment of love. They are also promises that maintain our hope in spite of difficulties, and proclaim to us the blessings and rewards that have already been started.
By living the Beatitudes here on earth, we imitate the Blessed Virgin Mary and the saints, who already experience the fulfillment of the Beatitudes in the kingdom of heaven.