Becoming an acolyte, specifically an instituted acolyte, involves a structured process within certain religious traditions, primarily for individuals preparing for ordained ministry. This role is formally recognized and carries specific responsibilities in liturgical service.
Path to Becoming an Instituted Acolyte
The journey to being instituted as an acolyte is part of a broader formation program for those on the path to becoming priests or deacons. It is a significant step, preceding ordination.
Prerequisites for Institution
To be instituted as an acolyte, an individual must first meet several foundational requirements within their formation:
| Prerequisite | Description |
|---|---|
| Candidate | The individual must have formally declared their intention to pursue holy orders and been admitted as a candidate for ordination. |
| Lector | The individual must have previously been instituted as a lector, which is another liturgical ministry focused on proclaiming the Word of God. |
Required Formation Period
In addition to these prerequisites, there is a substantial commitment to theological and spiritual preparation. An individual typically must be at least five years in formation before being eligible for institution as an acolyte. This extensive period ensures a deep understanding of the Church's teachings and liturgical practices.
Who Can Be Instituted?
The institution of an acolyte is specifically for:
- Seminarians (those studying for the priesthood)
- Deacons in preparation (those preparing for the diaconate, whether permanent or transitional)
This means the role of an instituted acolyte is intrinsically linked to the formal progression towards ordained ministry within the Church.
Duties of an Instituted Acolyte
Once instituted, an acolyte assumes vital responsibilities in the liturgy, especially during the celebration of the Mass. These duties contribute significantly to the smooth and reverent conduct of sacred services.
The General Instructions of the Roman Missal provide detailed guidance on the specific roles and functions of an acolyte. Key duties include:
- Assisting the Priest and Deacon: An acolyte helps the priest and deacon at the altar during liturgical celebrations.
- Serving at the Altar: This includes preparing the altar and sacred vessels, such as the chalice and paten, before the liturgy.
- Acting as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion: In the absence of a sufficient number of ordinary ministers (priests or deacons), an acolyte may be delegated to assist in the distribution of Holy Communion to the faithful.
- Purifying Sacred Vessels: After Communion, the acolyte assists the priest or deacon in purifying the sacred vessels.
- Exposing the Blessed Sacrament: In some circumstances, an acolyte may be entrusted with the exposition of the Most Blessed Sacrament for adoration, though not with the Benediction.
- Instructing Altar Servers: An acolyte may be responsible for training other altar servers who assist at liturgical functions.
For a comprehensive understanding of these roles, one can refer to the General Instructions of the Roman Missal (specifically numbers 178-193), which outlines the precise liturgical functions and responsibilities associated with this ministry.
An acolyte's ministry is crucial for the proper and dignified celebration of the Church's sacraments, reflecting a commitment to service and a deeper participation in the liturgical life of the community.
