Celebrating the Sacraments of Baptism and the Holy Eucharist in St Therese Parish, Moveave

Kerema: ``Today, we have witnessed both the Sacrament of Baptism and our children are about to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion. In Baptism, you are cleansed from your original sin and you become new. You will fall but you will still get up with the grace of the Holy Spirit because the Church is merciful and loving.’’

Candidates of the First Holy Communion pose for a group picture.

The heartfelt encouragement was shared by Parish Priest Fr. Eugene Karava at the celebration of the Sacrament of Baptism and Holy Communion at St. Therese Moveave, the Sub-Parish of St. Vincent de Paul Terapo in Kerema Diocese on Sunday 6th April, 2025.

During the Homily, Fr. Eugene Karava, reminded the Candidates, Parents, god-Parents and the Congregation on the importance of living a good Christian life and making use of opportunities that God gives.

"Firstly, words that come out of our mouth and how we express ourselves either brings destruction or harmony. An arrow fired from a bow never returns, likewise, our actions have consequences, whether it's good or bad. Thirdly, in our life experiences, different years come with their own unique experiences. Lastly, opportunities come once in a while. When God gives us an opportunity, we must make use of it, it may never come back.’’ 

He reminded the candidates of the Sacrament of Holy Communion that the Eucharist offers them the opportunity to receive graces from God and encouraged them to go for regular confessions before receiving the Eucharist.

The entire liturgical celebration was well prepared by St. Theresa Youth with joyful voices packed with the feeling of happiness.

Thirty-four candidates received the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist while twenty-nine received the Sacrament of Baptism.

The Catechist of the Parish of St Therese prepared the candidates of both Sacraments along with their parents and god-parents.

Following the mass, refreshments were served with encouragements from special guests in the likes of Justice Nicholas Miviri with his family and retired educationist from Moveave, Mr Joe Poe.

"The Holy Communion is food for your soul. Just like you need to feed yourself with physical food, the Holy Communion is there to feed your spirit. The Holy Communion will nourish your spiritual being and will bring you closer to God, regardless of circumstances in life. There is always a second chance to come back to God, through the Sacrament of Confession", Mr Poe encouraged the recipients of the Holy Communion.

(Fr Eugene Karava with parents, god-parents and the candidates of the Sacraments of Baptism)