Papal Nuncio Commissions MIC students as Eucharistic Ministers

Monday 30 April saw His Excellency Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, commission 62 students from Mary Immaculate College (MIC) as Eucharistic Ministers.

Papal Nuncio Commissions MIC students as Eucharistic Ministers

Monday 30 April saw His Excellency Archbishop Jude Thaddeus Okolo, Papal Nuncio to Ireland, commission 62 students from Mary Immaculate College (MIC) as Eucharistic Ministers with an additional three students being commissioned as Ministers of the Word, at a special ceremony held in the College Chapel. The occasion had added significance as it was the first time in Ireland Eucharistic Ministers were commissioned by a Papal Nuncio.

Speaking at the event Bishop of Limerick, Bishop Brendan Leahy, said “It’s a pleasure to be here on this special day for you and the College. I myself was commissioned as a Eucharistic Minister when I was in College and I still remember it to this day. Today is a day for all of you as we celebrate you being a part of the future of the church.”

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His Excellency Archbishop Okolo was particularly enthused about the occasion, and about the students in attendance, commenting that it was uplifting to see so many young people participating in the activities of the Church. He went on to add “Not only are they bringing Christ to the community through the Eucharist but they are also bringing Christ to people through their demeanor and commitment”. 

Professor Eugene Wall, President of MIC (Acting) also addressed the gathering referring to how special the event was in the life of the College.  He said, “We are honoured that Archbishop Okolo has come to the College to commission the students today. Events such as this represent a very tangible manifestation of the tradition and mission of Mary Immaculate College.”

The newly commissioned students undertook a training programme with MIC College Chaplain Fr Michael Wall. This training marked a significant extra commitment outside of the students’ studies and lectures. 

Speaking at the ceremony Fr Wall commended the student’s commitment. “During our training sessions we spoke about the relationship between church, communion and community. You are now part of that community in a very special way. What you are doing here today is not about glory or honour, it is about service. As you go back to your communities you go with a commitment to service and witness. Today you come from different regions to humbly serve the church into the future. You are a very important part of the church going forward and should be commended for your commitment.”

Congratulating the students, he said, “The generosity from students is quite humbling and we as a community in MIC are very proud of you. You are part of the church now and into the future. Like a stone falling into water, the ripples of your commitment will be felt for years to come,” said Fr Wall.

Community and a sense of witness was important to the students being commissioned on the day.  Colin Koyce, third-year BA student, said the ceremony was a wonderful occasion and he feels he is now ready to give service to his local community as a Eucharistic Minister.

Bringing the event to a close His Excellency congratulated all the students involved and wished them well as they go out to serve in their home parishes and communities.  He also thanked Fr Wall for his arduous work and commitment to the students.

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