Parenting with God’s grace
May 18, 2022
Lent into Easter
May 18, 2022

Fresh start for catechumens

Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) welcomed newly baptised brothers and sisters into the Catholic faith over the Easter weekend.

It was indeed a Glorious Saturday, seeing the devotion and commitment to the Catholic faith materialise, when the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) candidates took their steps to becoming closer to Christ following an intense, yearlong spiritual journey.

Officiated by Fr David Khan, the catechumens were constantly reminded of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and His willingness to forgive, despite those who persecuted, berated, mocked and denied His existence. They were told to continuously follow and practise the teachings of Christ who persevered against all odds.

Fr Khan indicated that their acceptance into the Catholic faith is a lifelong journey and one entrenched in the spiritual teachings of Christ. He urged them to be Christlike.

Glorious Saturday night brought forth hopes amidst fears and uncertainty, the latter symbolised by darkness, which was overcome by lighted candles.

Everyone had their own reasons for taking this step at renewing their faith and commitment; and upon completion were lauded by the congregation.

At the Easter Vigil Mass, catechumens received the three sacraments of initiation into the Catholic Church: Baptism, Confirmation, and their First Communion. It was the high point of the Easter Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Glorious Saturday) with devout Catholics celebrating the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ alongside the catechumens.

The Baptismal font for the candidates symbolised a fresh start and new beginning and the washing away of sins.

Being baptised in the Catholic faith, the catechumens experienced an internal change due to their trust in Christ. It was their way of declaring they followed Christ. Stepping into the font wilfully, symbolised their love, trust, and unwavering hope in Christ.

The water poured over their heads bore testament to sins being washed and their re-emergence symbolised new life.

Their baptism showcased the need for the catechumens to publicly declare their commitment to always live and follow Christ’s teachings of faith and obedience. Rejoice! — RCIA Sponsor