The Additional Curates Society was founded in 1837 by a Christian layman, Joshua Watson.

It's purpose is to ensure that the Christian Faith is proclaimed in poor and populous parishes. It does this by funding assistant priests, and encouraging vocations to the priesthood.

ACS believes that the sacrament of Holy Order, Priesthood, is a precious gift from God and a means of grace for His people. ACS also holds precious the people of God, especially in poor and populous parishes.ACS prays and works to ensure that parishes will have priests. It gives grants to parishes for priests. It fosters and encourages vocations to the priesthood.