Parents walked their children down the floral-lined aisle of the San Sebastian Cathedral today for the First Communion. People who were there to witness including teachers and school administrators were sentimental to see children garbed in white populate the church once more since the start of the pandemic lockdown in 2020. The First Communion marks an important rite of passage for children in the Christian tradition.
The experience of the Holy Mass was made special by psalm verses and prayers read by students. There were groups of children who were invited to come forward to lead action songs at the opening and recessional.
The liturgy was celebrated by Msgr. Joy Jimera, Vicar General of the Diocese of Bacolod.
In her message Sister President Joan Brigida Corazon S. Infante, OSA appealed to the parents and guardians to continue to support the Christian formation of the children. “I beg you to bring them to mass every Sunday and other special days in the church which we call holidays of obligation. Support your school in forming these children to become images of Christ”, she said.
Sr. Infante explained the symbolism of the candle held by parents as they accompanied them to receive their first communion. “The lighted candle symbolizes the light of Christ. I believe it also symbolizes your role as light to these children to bring them to the one true light who is Christ. Guide your children, let them experience the light of Christ in their everyday life” she added.
June 24, 2022 also marks the Feast of the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus in the Catholic Calendar.
In the afternoon, LCC Bacolod will hold the Confirmation, with Bishop Patricio Buzon to lay his hands upon students in the Junior High and Senior High School levels.