On Sunday, 30 November, the First Sunday of Advent, seventh-year seminarians Anthony Joe Borg and Fabio Cini were instituted into the Ministry of Acolyte by the diocesan bishop, H.E. Mgr Anton Teuma.
The Mass with the rite of institution was celebrated at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady in Xagħra. Anthony Joe is a native of the Xagħra parish, while Fabio comes from the Parish of the Assumption of Our Lady in Żebbuġ. After the proclamation of the Gospel, the Rector, Fr Joseph Bajada, formally presented the candidates to the Bishop. Following the homily, Bishop Teuma prayed over the seminarians and handed them the chalice and paten, encouraging them to deepen their relationship with God.
Several priests concelebrated with the Bishop, including Seminary formators and clergy from the parishes of the new acolytes. The Franciscan Sisters of the Seminary, along with the seminarians’ families, friends, and parishioners, were also present.
Through the Ministry of Acolyte, seminarians are called to grow in discipleship, love of the Lord, and service to others. The ministry entrusts them with assisting priests and deacons during liturgical celebrations, distributing the Holy Eucharist both in church and to the sick at home, and exposing the Blessed Sacrament for Adoration.
