Please continue your prayers for deacon candidate Ken Michaels as the Most Rev. Robert Casey will preside at his institution into the Ministry of Acolyte on November 9, 2024 at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, USML Ken is one of 20 candidates to be instituted into this ministry.

 

As is noted in the words of the Rite, instituted acolytes “have a special role in the Church’s ministry.” The Rite notes the following responsibilities:  Assist priests and deacons in carrying out their ministry at the Eucharist; As special ministers, they are to give Holy Communion to the faithful at the liturgy, and to the sick; Because they are specially called to this ministry, they should strive to live more fully by the Lord’s sacrifice and to be molded more perfectly in its likeness; They should seek to understand the deep spiritual meaning of what they do so to offer themselves daily to God as spiritual sacrifices acceptable to Him through Jesus Christ.

Regarding the Ministry of Acolyte, Canon Law also notes that newly instituted acolytes must regularly exercise their ministry from this point forward if they are to be
considered for the possibility of Holy Orders.

 

This year, Ken continues to be involved in multi-dimensional study, prayer and preparation for possible Holy Orders. Academic and formation courses include
Sacramental Theology, Foundations of Catholic Doctrine, Moral Theology, Liturgy and Rites Practicum, Homiletics, Spiritual Theology, Deacon’s Role in Renew My Church;
a retreat; monthly meetings for theological reflection; and monthly Spiritual Direction.

He also has been involved in a series of field education experiences and has completed a year-long parish liturgy internship experience. Thus, he continues his four-year preparation as a candidate for the diaconate.

 

Presently, there are nearly 500 active deacons in the Archdiocese of Chicago.
Please keep Ken and his daughter, and all those in formation and their families, in your prayers that they might continue to answer God’s call in their lives. Family, friends and parishioners are invited to attend the liturgy/institution.