ACOLYTES

“Some people think they are not holy enough for this ministry or not worthy to be on the altar. But you grow in holiness as you serve our Lord and his Church. You just have to be open to understanding the liturgy.”

- Tony Schafers

About This Ministry

The Ministry of Acolytes is a beautiful and sacred role at St. Teresa. Acolytes can be seen at nearly every Mass, wearing white robes and assisting our priests in our liturgical celebrations. The ministry of Acolyte—formerly a minor order—was established by Pope Paul VI in 1973 with the apostolic letter “Ministeria Quaedam.” Acolytes participate in processions, prepare wine and water for the Sacrifice of the Mass, purify the Eucharistic vessels, elevate the Roman Missal for the priest, and instruct altar servers on their placement and responsibilities on the altar. Many Acolytes also distribute Holy Communion to the sick.

The Ministry of Acolyte is open to men age 22 and older who are in full communion with the church and possess a love for the liturgy or a longing to know more about it. Acolytes receive instruction once a year through six weekly training sessions administered by the diocese. The bishop then installs the acolytes in a special ceremony. More men are needed for this ministry.

Training/Schedule

Candidates attend six weekly training sessions before they are installed as Acolytes by the Bishop of Lincoln.
Acolytes attend First Saturdays at 7:00 a.m. at the Pink Sisters Chapel for Mass, a talk, and fellowship. Attendance is voluntary, but all are encouraged to attend this once-a-month faith sharing event.

View Acolyte Schedule (July - Dec. 2023)

View Acolyte Schedule (Jan. - June 2024)