On Sunday, January 26, the Church in Gozo marked the celebration of the Sunday of the Word of God with a significant milestone for two seminarians. Anthony Joe Borg and Fabio Cini, both in their sixth year of formation, were instituted as lectors by H.L. Mgr. Anton Teuma, Bishop of Gozo.
The two seminarians hail from different parishes – Anthony Joe Borg from the Parish of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Xagħra and Fabio Cini from the Parish of the Assumption of Our Lady in Żebbuġ. The institution ceremony took place during a solemn Mass at 10:30 a.m. in the Parish Church of Żebbuġ.
During the liturgy, Bishop Teuma prayed over the candidates and formally presented them with the Sacred Scriptures, symbolising their new role in the service of the Word of God. Several priests, including seminary formators, concelebrated the Mass, which was attended by the families and friends of the newly instituted lectors, as well as members of the Żebbuġ parish community.
As lectors, the seminarians have been entrusted with the responsibility of proclaiming the Word of God in the liturgical assembly. Their ministry also involves instructing both children and adults in the faith and preparing them to receive the sacraments worthily. Additionally, they are called to share the message of salvation with those who have not yet encountered it, guiding people towards a deeper knowledge of God the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ.
The institution of lectors is a crucial step in the seminarians’ journey toward priesthood, reinforcing their commitment to serving the Church and its faithful through the Word of God.
