Paul D. Timmerman, a seminarian of the Diocese of New Ulm, was recently installed into the ministry of lector

Columbus, OH - Paul D. Timmerman, a seminarian from the Diocese of New Ulm studying at the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, OH, was recently installed into the ministry of lector.

On Sunday, November 17, 2002, the Pontifical College Josephinum welcomed the Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, Bishop of Fargo, N.D., as principal celebrant for the Mass and installation of Paul and nine other seminarians into the ministry of lector and eight seminarians into the ministry of acolyte. Formerly referred to as minor orders, these ministries are conferred upon seminarians prior to their diaconal and priestly ordination.

During his homily, Bishop Aquila encouraged the seminarians to walk in courage, putting the gift of fortitude into practice and reminded the entire assembly that a sign of true discipleship is always joy in faithful service. "Christ as the bridegroom entrusts His heart to the Church...we are to reach out our hands to the poor and extend our arms to the needy."

His Excellency noted that men being instituted as lectors and acolytes are called to give themselves totally and completely to the Church as they journey toward the Sacrament of Holy Orders. "You are to be faithful servants, to recognize the talents given to you and to give in service to the Lord."

As lectors, the first-year theology students read the word of God in the liturgical assembly, give instruction in the faith and prepare children and adults to receive the Sacraments worthily. During the ceremony, lector candidates kneel in a posture of reverence, as the bishop extends the Lectionary toward them saying, "Take this book of Holy Scripture, and be faithful in handing on the Word of God so that it may grow strong in the hearts of His people."

Acolytes, who are mostly second-year theologians, attend to the service of the altar and assist the deacon and priest in liturgical celebrations, distribute communion as a special minister, publicly expose the Blessed Sacrament for adoration and instruct laity appointed to assist in liturgical celebrations. The acolyte candidates also kneel as they receive a chalice and paten from the bishop who says, "Take this vessel with bread for the celebration of the Eucharist. Make your life worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of His Church."

Clearly, both messages strengthen and encourage our future priests to labor in love for the people of God and vigilantly care for the Bride of Christ, His Church.

Editors note: Keith Salisbury, a seminarian of the New Ulm Diocese, was installed November 1, 2002, as an Acolyte at Blessed John XXIII Seminary, Weston, MA. More details to follow in the February issue of The Prairie Catholic.