On Sunday, February 9, 2025, in the Conventual Franciscan Basilica in Cracow, four clerical student friars received the ministry of Lector (Friars Dariusz DZIUBACKI, Karol HABEREK, Demyan MYSAKOVETS and Eryk WALCZYSZEWSKI). Another four received the ministry of Acolyte (Friars Francis ASIIMWE, Miłosz MĘŻYK, Francis MUSAANYA and Marcin SARNA).
“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.” Thus, Friar Mariusz KOZIOŁ, the Minister Provincial of the Province of St. Anthony and Bl. James of Strepar in Poland (Cracow), addressed these words to the new lectors.
The lectors will read the Word of God during the liturgy, and prepare people to receive the sacraments. They will also proclaim the message of salvation to people who do not yet know it.
“Take this vessel of bread for the celebration of the Eucharist. Make your life worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of His Church.” Thus spoke the same Minister Provincial to the new acolytes.
The acolytes are to assist priests and deacons in the exercise of their office and, as extraordinary ministers, they are to administer Holy Communion to the faithful and bring it to the sick.
Friar Mariusz asked the friars to never sully the Lord with their egos, to always put the Lord first, to be humble as befits Friars Minor, to be faithful, and to experience God’s closeness, holiness and power. He also encouraged the clerical students to have an intimate relationship with the Lord through prayer and worship, and follow Jesus Christ with their whole lives.
The ministries of Lector and Acolyte are milestones for clerical student friars on their way to priestly ordination.
Text and photos: Friar Jan M. SZEWEK, and Friar Mikołaj GÖPPINGER
