20 New Lectors

Last evening, amidst great fanfare and in the presence of friends, family, and formators, the twenty men of the class of Theology I were admitted to the Ministry of Lector by the Most Reverend Thomas Doran, Bishop of Rockford.

The bishop reminded the men that though this event was, in fact, a step toward the priesthood, they should not consider it that alone. They have been entrusted with the Word of God, and have been called by the Universal Church to announce the Word in a world deeply in need of hearing it. I served as Deacon of the Altar, and had the privilege of hearing the Bishop tell them to grasp firmly the pages of the Bible as each of them individually approached him. He then instructed each of them, "Take this book of holy Scripture and be faithful in handing on the word of God that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people." With great devotion, each responded, "Amen."

It was truly beautiful to see these men make this step toward ordination. May the good work God has begun in them be brought to completion.

I'll add a photo as soon as I find one.