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Closer to the permanent diaconate
Bishop welcomes nine new acolytes
By J.D. Long-García The Catholic Sun
December 6, 2007
A diverse group of men took the next step in their journey toward the permanent diaconate Nov. 16 by becoming what is known as an acolyte.
An acolyte is a permanent extraordinary minister of Holy Communion and is the only lay minister who can purify the vessels at Mass.
Upon installing the nine men as acolytes, Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted presented each of them with a cup of wine during the Mass at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, symbolizing their service at the altar.
“As an acolyte, your own love for Christ present in the Eucharist is a witness to everyone else,” Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted said in his homily. “The reverence you show will help others appreciate that Christ is present.”
“It’s really significant,” said Deacon Jim Trant, director of the Office of the Diaconate. In accordance to the Roman Missal of Paul IV, only priests, deacons and acolytes can purify sacred vessels.
Deacon Keith Davis, assistant director of the Office of the Diaconate, said the men are four years into a five-year formation process. They will likely be ordained next year.
The deacon said more and more men are seeking out the permanent diaconate, both in the Phoenix Diocese and nationwide.
Deacon Davis noted the group’s diversity — Hispanic, Filipino, black and Anglo — and said they came from all parts of the Valley.
“For me, it’s the maximum,” said Jesús Morales from Holy Family Parish. “It’s a real nice feeling to share the blood of Christ with the rest of the congregation.”
Morales and most of the acolytes have enjoyed their wives’ support.
“I’m 100 percent behind him,” said Maria Teresita Morales. “Spiritually I’ve grown a lot in this journey that we’re going through. It brings us closer together as a couple.”
After being ordained a deacon, Morales would like to serve the Spanish-speaking population.
Steve Kohl of All Saints Parish in Mesa said once he felt called to the diaconate, he didn’t look back.
“It’s really about the call to serve others and that’s what the Eucharist is all about,” he said. “It gives you a clearer understanding of service.”
And that’s just what the Church needs, Deacon Davis said.
“The Church is in need of sacred ministers,” he said. “The diaconate is the image of Jesus the foot washer.”
Bishop Olmsted encouraged the acolytes to keep that in mind.
“Be obedient to the commandment the Lord gave His disciples at the Last Supper,” he said. “Love one another as I have loved you."
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