Does backstage or supporting work in a ceremony also have value?

Of course it does. A ceremony or pilgrimage succeeds through more than the people at the front who are easiest to see. Those playing gongs and drums, carrying flags, and maintaining order also help bring the work to completion.

I discussed roles within spiritual groups through the example of baseball players thanking support staff. People compete on the field while others care for and support them behind the scenes. Religious events are similar. A deity's medium occupies the main position and readily becomes the focus of attention, while helpers nearby may receive little notice. That does not make their contributions less important.

When I previously received Lord Bao during ceremonies, other mediums beside me represented the Seventh and Eighth Lords, Ox-Head and Horse-Face, and other deities. Disciples also carried censers and command flags, played instruments, and maintained order. The main figure alone could not complete everything satisfactorily. Everyone needed to fulfill their role for coordinated support and strength across the whole event.

So when receiving recognition, remember to share it with everyone. If you serve behind the scenes, do not assume your work is meaningless because it goes unseen. The roles differ, but everyone is contributing to the same undertaking. Those at the front likewise need to recognize and thank the support beside and behind them.