2024-03-08-eEdition

PAGE 20 THE CATHOLIC WEEK MARCH 8, 2024 ByThe CatholicWeek ORANGE BEACH — Congratulations to Archdiocese of Mobile seminarians Edward Char- nock, Rich Perkins, Ruben Castaneda and Gaten Armstrong, who each took a step in their voca- tions journeys during a Mass at the Archdiocesan Catholic Youth Conference in Orange Beach on Feb. 24-25. The rites were presided over by Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi and Archdiocese of Mobile Voca- tions director Fr. Patrick Gilbreath. Charnock received the Ministry of Lector, which is conferred upon those who prepare and proclaim readings from Scripture at Mass and other liturgi- cal celebrations. A lector may also recite psalms between the readings and present the intentions for the general intercessions. Perkins made his diaconate promises in prepara- tion for being ordained a transitional deacon. Castaneda was admitted to Candidacy for Holy Orders. It is celebrated when a candidate has reached a maturity of purpose and is shown to have the necessary qualifications.The intention of receiv- ing orders is expressed publicly by the candidate and the archbishop then accepts his publicly proclaimed intention. Armstrong received the Ministry of Acolyte. An Acolyte assists a deacon or priest, primarily in the celebration of Mass. He attends to the needs of the altar and may distribute Communion as an auxiliary minister. He also may be entrusted with the public veneration of the Blessed Sacrament, but does not give Benediction, which is reserved for a priest or deacon. VOCATIONS Four seminarians take important steps Photo courtesy of Deacon Andy Pitts Archdiocese of Mobile Vocations Director Fr. Patrick Gilbreath (left) and Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi are joined by Archdio- cese of Mobile seminarians Edward Charnock (from left), Rich Perkins, Ruben Castaneda and Gaten Armstrong. They each took various steps in their vocations journeys during the Archdiocesan Catholic Youth Conference in Orange Beach on Feb. 24-25.