On Saturday 25 October, Peter Julien received the Ministry of Acolyte from Archbishop John Wilson at St George’s Cathedral. This is an important milestone on the path to ordained ministry and the final instituted ministry before his planned Diaconate ordination in the latter part of 2026.
The Church entrusts the acolyte with a stable ministry of service at the altar. Peter is now formally commissioned to assist the priest and deacon during Mass, to prepare and care for the sacred vessels, and to support the reverent celebration of the Eucharist. Instituted acolytes should also assist with the distribution of Holy Communion at Mass and to the housebound whenever needed.
This ministry is not simply a set of new responsibilities. It carries a deeper spiritual meaning: the Church invites the acolyte to grow in love for the Eucharist, in attentiveness to the needs of the community, and in a spirit of humble service. It marks a step forward in Peter’s formation as he prepares to take up the pastoral, liturgical, and charitable responsibilities of a Permanent Deacon.
Please join me in congratulating Peter and let us continue to keep him and his family in our prayers in his formation years towards ordination.
Fr Habte
