Instituted Acolytes

There are three important moments, among many, for a  man preparing for ordination to the diaconate and priesthood.    They are liturgical rites that mark the formation journey. Candidacy declares that the aspirant (one who is seeking) is now officially in formation for Holy Orders.  Lector focuses on the proclamation of the Word of God.   Acolyte is the third.  While the term acolyte sometimes refers to altar servers, the ministry of instituted acolyte is something very specific.

The instituted acolyte is appointed to assist the deacon and priest in the celebration of the liturgy. He helps with the distribution of Holy Communion and he assists with the purification of the sacred vessels used in the distribution of Holy Communion.    As necessary, an instituted acolyte may also assist with the formation of other ministers who assist at the altar. Acolytes strive not only to learn all about the Sacred Liturgy, but to  grasp its inner spiritual meaning.

On his path of formation, our parishioner Michael Nowakowski was  instituted into the Ministry of Acolyte by Bishop Senior at Saint Patrick Cathedral on Saturday, May 10, 2025. We congratulate Mike and his wife Cathy on this important step that brings him closer to ordination as a Deacon.