Location: St. Anthony Mary Claret Catholic Church
Dear brothers and sisters, this is a moment of profound grace for all of us, as these brothers are installed as Lectors and Acolytes today. The ministries you are stepping into, brothers, are not mere tasks; they are sacred responsibilities, woven into the very heart of our shared faith.
Pope Francis reminds us that “the ministries of Lector and Acolyte are rooted in the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation.” Your ministry must highlight the interrelatedness between the priesthood proper to every faithful and the priesthood of ordained ministers. As you journey toward the diaconate, you are invited to serve more deeply in Christ’s mission, proclaiming His Word and attending to His Eucharistic presence.
But before all else, I encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit – vehemently and humbly – to illuminate the eyes of your hearts, so you may see with greater clarity the divine mysteries before you.
In our first reading, Moses speaks to the people, reminding them that God’s Word is not distant. It is near, already in their hearts and mouths. As Lectors, you will proclaim that very Word, making the voice of God present in the midst of His people. The Word you speak is not just a recitation of scripture – it is a living encounter with God, a Word that transforms. But in order to proclaim it with the power it deserves, you must first internalize it, asking the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of your heart, so that what you speak may flow from deep within, from a heart touched by God’s voice.
The psalm today speaks beautifully: “The command of the Lord is clear, enlightening the eye.” This is your call. Let the Word you proclaim not be confined to your lips but be enlightened by the Spirit within you.
Ask for the wisdom to see with the illuminated eyes of the heart, so that your proclamation may lead others to that same enlightenment.
In the second reading, St. Paul reminds us of the unity we share through the Eucharist. As Acolytes, you will assist in the celebration of the sacred mysteries. You will handle the sacred vessels, attend to the altar, and distribute Christ’s Body and Blood. But remember, this ministry is not merely functional; it is deeply spiritual. Ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart, so that in every act of service at the altar, you may see and reverence Christ truly present.
Finally, in the Gospel, Jesus proclaims, “I am the bread of life.” As Lectors and Acolytes, you are called to lead others to this Bread from heaven. In all that you do, may your ministry help others encounter Jesus, the source of eternal life.
Let us ask Our Lady of Guadalupe to help us open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, to serve, proclaim and bear faithful witness to the living God.
