10/11/2025
"Only a heart that is purified by zeal and love should serve at the altar."
These were the powerful words of Most Rev. Ricardo Baccay, DD, Archbishop of Tuguegarao, during the Institution to the Sacred Ministry of Acolytes of eleven (11) Configuration Year Two brothers at the Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur.
In his homily, the Archbishop reminded the newly instituted acolytes that this ministry is not merely a function, but a way of life that demands a zeal that purifies, a zeal that builds communion, and a zeal that humbles. He emphasized that their service must always lead people closer to Christ, especially in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
Quoting Ministeria Quaedam of Pope Paul VI, the Church teaches that:
“The acolyte is appointed in order to aid the deacon and to minister to the priest. It is his duty therefore to attend to the service of the altar and assist the deacon and the priest in liturgical celebrations, especially in the celebration of Mass; he is also to distribute communion as a special minister when the ministers spoken of in Canon 845 are not available, or when the number of communicants is so great that the celebration of Mass would be unduly prolonged.”
With hearts filled with gratitude and reverence, the newly instituted acolytes step forward to serve God and His Church with fidelity, devotion, and love.
Let us continue to pray for them, that their service at the altar may always be marked by humility, zeal, and a deep love for Christ present in the Eucharist.
