Continuing their journey
O
n 21 November, Bishop McKenna admitted seminarian Kieu Van Le to the Ministry of Lector and seminarian Ha Van Tran to the Ministry of Acolyte at the Cathedral of St Michael and St John. On the long journey of discernment and formation before ordination, seminarians make three important steps: Ministry of Lector, Ministry of Acolyte and the Admission to Candidacy. Those involved in this ministry are called to be servants of the living word of God. In proclaiming the readings, the lector does more than simply read. A lector’s spirituality must include an understanding of Holy Scripture as God’s word made present to mankind throughout history, but most fully present in the person of Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. Those who exercise the ministry of reader must be truly suited and carefully prepared, so that the faithful may develop a warm and living love for Sacred Scripture from listening to the sacred readings. Training includes both spiritual and technical preparation.
Seminarian Ha Van Tran being admitted to the Ministry of Acolyte
In the Ministry of Lector, the reader is ministering to the community. This is most appropriately done when the individual is able to proclaim the Scripture from the depths of their lived faith. An acolyte is instituted for service at the Altar and to assist the priest and deacon. It is his place principally to prepare the Altar and the sacred vessels and, if necessary, to distribute the Eucharist to the faithful as an extraordinary minister. In the absence of a priest or deacon, he may also be delegated to expose the Blessed Sacrament for adoration and replace it in the tabernacle afterward.
Kieu and Ha celebrate with their brothers from the Good Shepherd Seminary
On a deeper level, through their attentiveness and constant study of the matters of divine worship, acolytes are called to foster “a sincere love for Christ’s mystical body, God’s holy people and especially for the weak and the sick” to whom they bring the Holy Eucharist when illness prevents them from coming to the church themselves. We offer Kieu and Ha congratulations and ask for your continued prayers as they mark these important milestone on their journey towards priesthood. Christine Sweeney
Seminarian Kieu Van Le being admitted to the Ministry of Lector
Page 4 • December 2021 • C a t h o l i c O B S E RV E R , T h e D i o c e s e o f B a t h u r s t