Dear Friends in Christ,
It is with great joy that I share some wonderful news with you. Last Saturday, June 21, at St. Stephen Church, Bishop Michael Barber installed fourteen men from diverse backgrounds to the ministry of acolyte during a beautiful and solemn Mass. This installation marks their final step before ordination to the Permanent Diaconate.
Among those installed were two members of our own Christ the King–St. Stephen Parish community: Nelson Gonzales and Wynn Norona. We are so proud of their dedication and commitment to serve the Church in this sacred vocation. In fact, their ordination to the diaconate is scheduled this coming October—and we look forward to celebrating that milestone with them.
The role of an acolyte is deeply meaningful. Derived from the Greek word for “follower” or “attendant,” an acolyte assists at Mass by preparing the altar, purifying the sacred vessels, and serving as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion. This rite of installation is not only a public witness of their call but also the first time their families and loved ones see them vested for ministry.
As deacons, these men will one day be able to officiate at baptisms, weddings, and funerals, proclaim the Gospel and preach at Mass, assist in the preparation of couples for marriage and parents for baptism, and—perhaps most importantly—serve the poor and the marginalized with compassion and humility.