Dear Fellow Parishioners,
Happy Easter! I hope you continue celebrating this holiest of all days when our Lord overcame death and conquered the grave. Jesus’ Resurrection should fill everyone with a sense of awe!
As we usually do during the Easter Season, we will celebrate First Holy Communion for students in our parish on May 4th and May 11th. While receiving Jesus, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity is always awe-inspiring, there is a special grace in one’s First Holy Communion. This is one of the most memorable moments in the Catholic faith journey, and it is a gift and a blessing for every individual and family. Parents and teachers partner in the process of Sacramental Preparation, so First Communion is a true community celebration.
CTK-St. Stephen Religious Education and CTK School are in the final stages of preparing students for First Holy Communion. The first retreats for students were held last Saturday, with others to follow this Saturday, April 20 and Saturday April 27. During the retreats we discuss the importance of the Eucharist in the life of every Catholic, and how greatly Jesus desires to be everyone’s friend, the one everyone can turn to, no matter what. During the retreat, children also enjoy the Church tour, especially their trip into that “mysterious” room behind the altar, the Sacristy. They have many questions and they’re so much fun to answer. It is always a joy to witness children’s growth in the faith. Thank you, parents, for passing on this most precious gift to your children and allowing us to be part of their journey!