SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER– 13^th /14^th MAY 2023

Dear parishioners,

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is announcing that the Holy Spirit will be given to the Apostles and to us, by God the Father. The Spirit is already with us and in us. Jesus says: “I will not leave you orphans, I will come back to you…the world will no longer see me, but you will see me…”. This is the mystery and the wonder of our faith. This is the truth that we believe in. This truth gives us strength, hope, specific understanding of human life and the whole of creation. We do not see God but we believe He is with and within us. We believe that we are not on our own in this life. Our human existence is not only for this life but for eternal life. We have been made for Him and for sharing with Him. In this special-unique relationship we can build up our relationships with others.

In different words St Peter says (2^nd reading): “Reverence the Lord Christ in your hearts”. He is really close to us in our hearts and minds. This is part of the truth of our faith. Peter also says: “always have your answer ready for people who ask you the reason for the hope that you all have”. We need to have our answers and our reasons ready to show why we have hope. Today, many people do not know what to really believe and are not sure whom believe or follow. The important thing is to be able to share our faith in God. We constantly need to keep in mind that He has not left us orphans but is with us always.

I would like to congratulate families of the First Holy Communion children and the Confirmation group. I have witnessed how the parents have been ready to share their own faith and their answers with their children. What a beautiful journey we have made during the Programmes! It was inspiring to see families very committed to help their children to grow in faith. Thank you for your efforts in this journey together with your children. Thank you for your attendance and the time given for your children. Learning is not only during the catechetical sessions but also in your example and commitment.  As you know, children follow by example and I feel that you have helped to inspire your children. And also, thanks to all parishioners who have been praying for all the young people.

I have enjoyed every session within the First Holy Communion and Confirmation groups. The different questions and experiences have helped to develop the truth of our faith. We journeyed together through the Old Testament, the Last Supper, what the Catholic Mass is; Christian Parenting, the Five Languages of Love, the importance of Prayer in family life and the Christian Community, etc… With the Confirmation group some of the sessions were: who is Jesus for me; self-awareness; relationships; vocations; sacraments; the Fruits of the Holy Spirit and much more. Our faith is related to God and our personal relationships.

A SPECIAL thank you to all our Catechists! Without them we could not run the Programmes!

Have a good week ahead,

Anabel Gonzalez, FMVD