Instituted ministries
Are you being called to something more?
Instituted Ministries in the Archdiocese of Brisbane: Lector, Acolyte and Catechist
All the baptised are called to play a role in the mission of Christ to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19 – 20). All are invited to discern and consider the part we might play in this mission. In 2021 Pope Francis issued two apostolic letters, Spiritus Domini and Antiquum Ministerium, opening the door to all Catholics to engage in the instituted ministries of Lector, Acolyte and Catechist.
are you called to one of these ministries?
LECTOR
The instituted lector not only proclaims the Scriptures in the liturgy, but is someone who has a deep love for scripture, studies scripture and prays with scripture. The lector also shares this love of scripture with others by providing formation on the word of God through scripture groups and Lenten groups as well as recognising and encouraging others who might have a ministry as reader or lector.
ACOLYTE
The instituted acolyte not only serves at the altar in the liturgy, but is someone with a deep love for the sacraments, especially the Eucharist, studies the theology of the sacraments, and experiences the grace of the sacraments in their fullness. The acolyte shares this love of the Eucharist with others by providing formation on the sacraments, and recognising and encouraging others who might have a ministry as a communion minister or acolyte.
CATECHIST
The instituted catechist is not only involved in the preparation of those seeking the sacraments of initiation, but is someone with a deep desire for the evangelising mission of the Church. The catechist is a leader in the parish with responsibilities that may include the provision of ongoing education and formation within the parish or community as well as preparing parents for the baptism of their children and overseeing children’s, youth and family ministries. The catechist may also organise and run sacramental programs, lead community prayer and promote social justice initiatives. The catechist shares their love for evangelisation and formation with others, and recognises and encourages others who might have a ministry as a catechist.
Criteria for candidates
- Candidates for instituted ministries are women and men of deep faith and maturity who are active participants in the life of the Christian community.
- They should be recognised, trusted, and respected members of the local community with potential for leadership and talents specific to the ministry in question.
- They would ideally have a sound theological, scriptural and ecclesial background with a knowledge of the liturgy, its rites, structures and symbols.
- They may have skills or experience in pastoral care.
- Aware of the office they are undertaking, lectors are to make every effort and employ suitable means to acquire that increasingly warm and living love and knowledge of Scripture.
- Acolytes should learn all matters concerning public divine worship and strive to grasp their inner spiritual meaning with a sincere love for the people of God, especially for the weak and the sick.
- Catechists should have a deep understanding of scripture and tradition, and live the life of a missionary disciple.
The Archdiocese of Brisbane has standards of conduct to maintain a safe and healthy environment for children. Our commitment to these standards requires that we conduct working with children checks and background referencing for all persons who will engage in direct and regular involvement with children and young people (0 – 18 years) and/or vulnerable adults. The organisation is fully committed to child safety and has a 0 tolerance to abuse of children or vulnerable adults. As part of the criteria process, we will be conducting a working with children check and background referencing.

To register your interest in one of these ministries, fill out the form here
Costs
The journey to becoming an instituted minister will look different based on which ministry you are interested in (as mentioned above in the Active Discernment Phase). Each module of Catholic Foundations will cost $250. To support those on the journey we recommend parishes sponsor their parishioners for the active discernment phase.
If cost is prohibitive, consider applying for a grant via the Douglas Foundation. To find out more click the button below:
Contact The archdiocese of brisbane
ministries@bne.catholic.net.au
Phone
07 3324 3440