SAGINAW- On Sunday, October 13, Bishop Robert Gruss instituted seven permanent deacon candidates into the ministry of Acolyte during Mass at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption. The permanent deacon candidates are:
Matt Begres, Sacred Heart Parish, Mount Pleasant
John Copes, St. Michael Parish, Maple Grove
Hugh LeFevre, St. Dominic Parish, Saginaw
Jason Rasmussen, Holy Spirit Parish, Shields
Bob Sasiela, St. Joseph Parish, Saginaw
Lenn Stankiewicz, St. Michael Parish, Maple Grove
Bob Zondlak, Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish, Midland
The ministry of Acolyte for these deacon candidates is a preliminary step towards Holy Orders. "The acolyte is instituted for service at the altar and to assist the priest and deacon. It is his place principally to prepare the altar and the sacred vessels and, if necessary, to distribute the Eucharist to the faithful as an extraordinary minister" (GIRM #98). Acolytes may also purify sacred vessels and are permitted to expose the Blessed Sacrament for adoration.
To view Photos from the Mass follow this link: Institution of Deacon Candidates into the Ministry of Acolyte
The Diocese of Saginaw currently has 21 permanent deacons, some of whom are married and some who are single. Men who sense that God may be calling them to serve as a permanent deacon should e-mail diaconate@diosag.org or call the Office of the Permanent Diaconate at 989.797.6662. Learn more about the permanent deacon formation program here: https://saginaw.org/deacons