This year, the parish of SS Peter and Paul, Crosby, hosted the annual Candidacy and Ministries Mass—a significant event marking the conferral of the Ministries of Acolyte and Lector, and the reception of Candidacy.

The Mass, celebrated by Bishop Tom Neylon, brought together parishioners and clergy from across the archdiocese.

This special Mass highlights a key part of the journey for those in formation for the Diaconate or Priesthood. Ministries like Acolyte and Lector, traditionally called Minor Orders, are open to lay people, but are also conferred on seminarians as they progress through their training.

The Ministry of Acolyte, which involves ministering Holy Communion, and the Ministry of Lector, the calling of a Reader, signify steps of commitment within the Church.

This Mass also includes the reception of Candidacy, marking a designation for those progressing toward these ministries on the path towards the Diaconate or Priesthood.

Dennis Jones, a parishioner of SS Peter and Paul, was conferred the Ministry of Acolyte, alongside Andrew Dell from Our Lady’s, Formby. Candidacy was conferred upon Peter Ross, a parishioner of St. Margaret Mary’s parish and father of Fr. Peter Ross, as well as Ken McCabe from St. Peter and Paul’s, Kirkby.

The celebration concluded with a buffet in Sacred Heart College’s hall, offering an opportunity for fellowship and reflection.

As the archdiocese continues to nurture vocations, the annual Candidacy and Ministries Mass remains a vital occasion for affirming those called to serve. For SS Peter and Paul parish, Mgr John Furnival commented that hosting this year’s ceremony was a “happy privilege” —a day marked by prayer, commitment, and celebration.

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