It was a joyful celebration when Hien Linh (the Epiphany) Parish of Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Saigon-HCM City marked such a special day in the life of eighty-three children and two adults to receive Holy Communion for the very first time on Sunday, June 23rd 2019. About a week before, they had also received the sacrament of First Reconciliation. These sacraments draw them closer to Lord Jesus Christ, bring them into greater union with the Church, and give them the divine strength to live their faith.
It was significant that these eighty-five persons made their First Holy Communion on the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, celebrated by Fr. Joseph Quang-Chung Le SJ, the parish priest of Hien Linh. In his homily, Fr. Joseph told them about the great meaning of receiving the Body and Blood of the Lord - the divine food that feeds the Christian life. He also invited them to unite with the Eucharistic Jesus by daily Masses, and to pray for their families so that they would get examples of faith education from their parents.
As Pope Francis said, “The Eucharist is such a great gift. That's why going to Mass is so important. Going to Mass not just to pray, but to receive Communion, the Bread and Body of Christ. It saves us, forgives us and it makes us one with the Father. How beautiful!” These eighty-five persons are the future of our parish and Church and we rejoice as they receive the Eucharistic Lord. Congratulations to them all!
Quoc-Tuan SJ
Photos: #truyenthongHienLinh
