A Perth parishioner has served for five decades as an acolyte in his home parish at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Bruce Rock. Source: The Record.
Fifty years after he was first approached by Fr Pat Ahern to consider becoming an acolyte, John Foss is still going strong.
A local identity and farmer born and bred in Bruce Rock, Mr Foss was one of three parishioners who agreed, eventually, to take up the ministry.
As Mr Foss’s wife, Margaret, recalled, the three men were initially reluctant because they did not consider themselves worthy of serving. Following some encouragement and initial teaching from Fr Ahern, however, they decided to proceed.
Following their training at Bruce Rock, Mr Foss and his fellow acolytes attended a weekend of further instruction at St Thomas More College before being installed as acolytes at a ceremony held in Perth.
So began a ministry that would see Mr Foss serve with the many parish priests who, over the years, would visit St Mary’s to celebrate Mass and the sacraments.
And not only parish priests; Mr Foss has also proudly served alongside Archbishop Emeritus William Foley, Archbishop Emeritus Barry Hickey, Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus Robert Healy and Bishop Don Sproxton.
“John has always felt it was a privilege to assist the priests of Bruce Rock, because he is so appreciative to have them in our parish,” Mrs Foss revealed.
Asked whether Mr Foss ever thought he would continue as an acolyte for 50-plus years, Mrs Foss replied, “no, never, it would not have crossed his mind initially.”
And as for retirement plans, “I think he’ll only retire when he can’t stand at the altar,” she suggested, “plus we don’t have any other acolytes who can take over.”
“For country parishes (having an acolyte) is important because, between the distances that the priests must travel, and if they can’t attend due to illness or other factors, it is good to have someone who can assist.”
FULL STORY
Fifty years of dedicated service – and more to come (By Phil Bayne, The Record)
