Four candidates in the formation program to become permanent deacons in service to the Diocese of Cleveland were instituted to the ministry of lector during a Mass on March 9 at St. Albert the Great Church in North Royalton.
The candidates are Andrew Davis from St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Akron; Matthew Grasson from SS. Cosmas and Damian in Twinsburg; Jeno Kiraly, a parishioner at St. Anthony of Padua in Lorain; and Matthew Lawler from St. Joseph Parish in Strongsville. They were instituted into the ministry of lector by Cleveland Bishop Nelson Perez.
During the institution rite, the candidates knelt before the bishop, received the Holy Bible and heard the bishop recite, “Take this book of the Holy Scriptures and be faithful in handing on the Word of God so that it may grow strong in the hearts of his people.”
The lector is instituted to proclaim the readings from Sacred Scripture, with the exception of the Gospel. He may also announce the intentions for the Universal Prayer and, in the absence of a psalmist, recite the psalm between the readings. The lector also instructs children and adults in the faith, and prepares them to receive the sacraments worthily.
During his homily, Bishop Perez thanked the candidates’ wives who offer their support to their spouse’s ministry. He also thanked the dedication of the candidates who, he said, “Somewhere along their journey heard the voice within calling them to service in the Church.”
Father Joseph Mamich, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Strongsville, Father John Vrana, spiritual director for the diaconate program in the Diocese of Cleveland, and Father Edward Estok, pastor of St. Albert the Great Parish in North Royalton, concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Perez.
After Mass the bishop attended a reception for those who were instituted as lectors, their families and members of the hosting parish.
