Our Easter Season began with the celebration of the sacraments of initiation during the Vigil. Macy and Diane found the longer-than-usual Mass rich in the readings, rituals, and words of our sacred Tradition.
Macy, a Grade 9 student, said of her experience, “A feeling of peace. It is just so true a unity with Christ. I could really feel what an impactful and beautiful moment that it was. It really is hard to put in words . . . so powerful but also peaceful.” Macy plans to join our catechetical team as an assistant catechist in September!
Diane was also inspired by the celebration, and has since added to the ranks of our sacristans and funeral ministers!
On April 30, children from our parish celebrated First Holy Communion. We encouraged them to be open to the love of Jesus when receiving Holy Communion and while living our holy communion with one another and all those we encounter. We are reminded that the word “Eucharist” means “thanksgiving.” We give thanks to the Lord for the great gift of the Eucharist, for our wonderful children, and for the faith community of St. Dunstan’s!
On Pentecost Sunday, we celebrated the sacrament of Confirmation. During the past year, confirmandi participated in service projects and shared their gifts with others in our parish and beyond. They supported the community outreach of the Sisters of St. Martha, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, and the Holy Childhood Association. The Holy Spirit is the Advocate, the Spirit of truth, they learned, who guides us as we live and grow in faith. As disciples, we are able to use his strengthening gifts to be advocates and guides for others on their faith journey!
We are grateful to parents, catechists, sponsors and OCIA team members for their dedication over the months of preparation.
And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. – Romans 5:5