On Wednesday February 10, the Feast of Saint Scholastica, the Right Reverend Mark A. Cooper, O.S.B., Abbot of Saint Anselm Abbey, instituted two monks of the Abbey, Brothers Titus Phelan, O.S.B. ’12 and Basil Franciose, O.S.B. ’17, into the ministry of acolyte. The ministry of acolyte is formally conferred on those men who are preparing to be ordained as priests. Instituted acolytes serve at the altar by assisting priests and deacons during the Liturgy. They may also be tasked with distributing the Eucharist at Mass and bringing Communion to the Sick.
“We are so pleased to have two of our brothers take this step toward priesthood,” said Abbot Mark. “This event is a wonderful representation of how our community continues to grow and flourish.”
Brother Titus is currently in his final year of theological studies at Boston College’s School of Theology and Ministry in Brighton, Massachusetts. He is a native of Swampscott, Massachusetts.
Brother Basil is currently in his 2nd year of theological studies at Saint John’s Seminary in Brighton, Massachusetts. He is a native of Salt Lake City, Utah.