Sunday dawned sunny, cloudless, and warm, a beautiful day for 29 children to receive the Holy Eucharist for the first time. We congratulate you all and welcome you into an ever deeper relationship with Jesus.
With families and guests, the church so full, it made sense to celebrate a special Mass in the afternoon. There was a lot of excitement and some nervousness in the air. This is not a time for the person seeking a quiet, contemplative experience.
After the Homily, it was time for the children to reconnect with their Baptism. It’s a special moment for a young child to hold a their baptismal candle, lit with the light of Christ. Six times, Father asked, “Do you…?” and the children responded with a robust “I do!” Then it was time to recall the moment of Baptism, when Father pours water while saying “I baptize you in the name…”. Father is always very generous when blessing the children with a sprinkling of holy water.
When each child came forward to receive the Body of Christ, many also received the Precious Blood. Parents, we will soon email to you a photo of your child receiving.
For their part in helping the children to prepare for this day, we have many people to thank. Let’s start with their first teachers, their parents. Christine Kainz heads sacramental prep, and Kristin Johnson directs our Family Faith Formation program. Thanks also to our Greeters and Sunday Choir. Fr. Konopa led the celebration masterfully and had a great message in his Homily.
As a parish family, we pledge to support these children in their faith journey with prayer and setting a good example. Again, congratulations to all!
Mary, Mother of the Church 