David Curtin, a seminarian for the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Ind., was one of 17 students who received the ministry of acolyte Feb. 8 at the school’s St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel. Archbishop Daniel M. Buechlein, OSB, of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, presided at the installation.

An acolyte is appointed to assist a deacon or priest, primarily in the celebration of Mass. He attends to the needs of the altar and may distribute Communion as an auxiliary minister. He also may be entrusted with the public veneration of the Blessed Sacrament, but does not give the Benediction, since he is neither a priest nor a deacon.

St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology offers initial and continuing education for priests, permanent deacons and lay ministers. A two-year pre-theology program leads to a master’s degree in Catholic philosophical studies. The four-year theology program leads to a master of divinity degree.