Jeffery Walker is installed as an acolyte during the celebration of the Eucharist at Pontifical North American College March 7. (Photo courtesy of the Pontifical North American College)

Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi of Mobile, Ala., the principal celebrant of the liturgy, instituted the seminarians. These seminarians have now received both the ministry of lector and acolyte in anticipation of their diaconal and then priestly ordination.

Archbishop Rodi reminded the acolytes of the contemporary challenges to faith, as well as the central role of personal witness and authenticity in the exercise of priestly ministry. He encouraged them to take up the challenge “to bring Christ to others and others to Christ.”

The ritual for the installation of acolytes includes the prayer: “Take this vessel of bread for the celebration of the Eucharist. Make your lives worthy of your service at the table of the Lord and of His Church.”