Timoleague parishioner has taken the final step in his formation before b eing ordained a permanent deacon in our diocese.

On Sunday, at Mass in the Cathedral in Cork, Bishop Fintan Gavin instituted Paul Ryan as an acolyte.

Bishop Fintan explained the meaning of this step.

“The ministry itself is simple and practical — assisting at the altar, serving the celebration of the Mass, and helping in the distribution of Holy Communion.”

But its meaning is much deeper, Bishop Fintan said.

“It’s about being close to Christ in the Eucharist, the source of life, and allowing that closeness to shape the whole of one’s life.

At the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne, Cork, Paul Ryan kneels before Bishop Fintan as he is instituted as an Acolyte.

Catechumen candidates and sponsors

The Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion was celebrated recently as adults who are preparing to receive the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at Easter gathered from across the diocese in the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne.

In his homily, Bishop Fintan reflected on the theme of choice at the heart of the Christian life, reminding those present that faith is always a response to God’s call. As he explained: “The Church calls this the Rite of Election, because God has chosen you. You are also choosing Him. It is a relationship. God calls and we respond.”