Brothers installed to minor ministries of Lector and Acolyte

“He shall receive a blessing from the Lord, a reward from God his Savior. Such is the race that seeks him, that seeks the face of the God of Jacob.” Psalm 24:5-6

On the 1^st of November, 2021, Solemnity of all Saints, The Adorno Fathers community in Lipa, Philippines celebrated the solemn Mass and installation of minor ministries.

Four brothers were installed to the Ministry of Lector; Br. Mbusa Mahamba Diedonne, CRM, Br. Shauri Rubuga Vincent, CRM, Br. John Lord Adonis, CRM and Br. Mark Jendam Bertumen, CRM.  Br. Wilson Olea, CRM was installed to the Ministry of Acolyte. Rev. Fr. Jason Caganap CRM, Superior of the US-Philippine Delegation presided over the celebration.

Historically, the ministry of Lector and the ministry of Acolyte were part of the four minor orders of the Church and held their character in the liturgical celebration of the Church only.

These ministries are part of the formation of those preparing for the sacrament of Holy Orders. The lectors and acolytes assist the priest during liturgical functions and essentially, the characteristics of these two ministries are for the service and assistance of the parish communities in their liturgical worship.

Rev. Fr. Caganap highlighted in his homily the personal devotion and love everyone should have toward the saints. The love and devotion that we have for them strengthen and inspire us as we live out our faith. He also emphasized the unrecognized saints who also received the glory of heaven. By relating this to the Gospel, he reminded the community how God blessed the saints and how the saints’ blessed others.

He asked the congregation “How have I been a blessing to people?” He challenged those who were to be installed to the Sacred Ministries to be saints. The saints, in their own lives loved the word of God, they were inspired and called to answer and proclaim the word of God to all. He also stressed the teaching of St. Francis of Assisi “to proclaim the good news to all the world and if it necessary to use words”.

Fr. Caganap also reminded the newly installed acolyte that he will be close to the altar, and as a part of the eucharistic celebration he is called to a life of sacrifice, thanksgiving, and love.

The US-Philippine delegation asks everyone to pray for the newly installed lectors and acolyte that they may continue to grow in holiness in the ministries they were installed.