On Tuesday 13 May, St Patrick’s Cathedral came alive as hundreds gathered to celebrate 248 liturgical ministers from across the Diocese of Parramatta. In a joyful evening Mass led by Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, the ministers were commissioned or recommissioned, renewing their commitment to serve their parish communities.
The annual Commissioning Mass is a moment of recognition, prayer and sending forth for the many laypeople who serve faithfully in their local parishes as Readers, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, and Ministers of the Altar.
This year’s celebration took on added significance as part of the Diocese’s Jubilee Year, with all liturgical ministers – new and experienced – invited to take part.
Bishop Vincent during his homily. Image; Anna Amos/ threetwoone.com.au
Ministers step up for first time
Among the 248 ministers, an inspiring 142 were being commissioned for the first time, having completed the Diocese’s Liturgical Ministry formation course in late 2024 or early 2025. Of these, 56 were commissioned as Ministers of the Altar.
“I was asked to serve after some of the existing ministers had retired, and I said yes because there was a real need in my parish,” said Mike Schembri, a new Altar Server and Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion.
“It’s where I felt I could help the most – and I like the outfit too!”
Newly commissioned ministers present the Gifts of Offertory to Bishop Vincent during the 2025 Annual Commissioning Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Anna Amos/ threetwoone.com.au
The Cathedral was filled with over 600 people – ministers, clergy, parish staff, family and friends. With a standing room only, the atmosphere was one of reverence and joyful witness, and as each group of ministers stood for their blessing from Bishop Vincent, the community joined in support, affirming their shared vocation in the liturgy.
Many were struck by the strong showing of new Ministers of the Altar – one of the most visible signs of growth in parish liturgical life.
“It was incredible to see so many Ministers of the Altar being commissioned,” said Paolo Grella, Liturgy Support Coordinator for the Office for Worship.
“It was a powerful and inspiring witness to see such a large number of liturgical ministers celebrating the important work they do for their communities.”
Newly commissioned ministers pose for a photo with Bishop Vincent after the 2025 Annual Commissioning Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parramatta. Image: Anna Amos/ threetwoone.com.au
The Commissioning Mass is part of the Diocese’s ongoing commitment to form and support those who serve in liturgical ministry. As the Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains continues its journey as a more synodal Church, this celebration stands as a sign of unity and shared mission across parishes.
It also reflects key priorities in the Diocese’s Pastoral Plan for a Synodal Church, particularly the commitment to “promote liturgical training for ministries like lectors and acolytes, with a particular focus on increasing the participation and representation of women in these roles.”
The strong presence of women among those commissioned highlights the fruits of this intentional focus.
Opportunities such as the Liturgical Ministry formation course not only deepen theological and liturgical understanding, but also open doors for broader participation and leadership in parish life. By equipping laypeople – women – with the tools and confidence to serve in visible liturgical roles, the Diocese continues to foster a Church where the gifts of all the baptised are recognised, encouraged and nurtured.
View the photos on Flickr.
The Liturgical Ministries Formation Courses start again in September 2024. For more information, contact your local parish.
