a) What is fortitude?
Fortitude is the virtue that disposes us to hold on in times of difficulties, and to be constant in pursuing what is good.
This virtue can even lead us to accept death rather than sin, sacrificing our life out of love. Few of us will probably be called by God to die as martyrs. But we should all live fortitude in the little and great difficulties of everyday life, both in resisting evil and in doing good.
b) Why should Altar Servers live the virtue of fortitude?
Difficulties usually arise when we try to fulfill our ordinary duties such as our studies, prayers, and household chores. They may also arise when we relate with others at home, in school, at play, in the parish or in other places. Jesus calls the Altar Server to imitate his suffering on the Cross by accepting these daily difficulties and offering them up to God.
We should strive to overcome difficulties first, by asking for divine assistance. Secondly, by doing our best in our studies and work, and trying to be more helpful and generous to all.