MANTIN : The historical Church of St Aloysius (SAC) saw 22 children receiving Jesus Christ for the very first time in Holy Communion on Oct 25.

SAC parish priest, Fr Anthony Thomas administered the sacrament of Holy Communion at the 8.30am Mass to the 22 candidates from the English and Mandarin speaking groups. He also commended the two catechists, Rosie Chen and Annie Chin who had worked tirelessly to prepare the children for their big day.

In his homily, Fr Thomas invited the assembly to pray specially for the Holy Spirit to be with the candidates in their journey of faith, as they continue to get closer to God. He also expressed his appreciation to their parents for their support in sending their children for the Sunday school. After Mass, Fr Thomas presented the certificates to the 22 candidates.

The parishioners, who have grown closer and fonder of their parish priest, gave Fr Thomas a surprise when a cake was unveiled and brought forward to the sanctuary. The whole assembly sang Happy Birthday in both English and Mandarin. Fr Thomas turned 72 on Oct 22. With a smile, Fr Thomas cut the cake and thanked his parishioners.

Peter Thong, who is the senior catechist for the English section, said as this is the Year for Priests, it is good to express the assembly’s appreciation of Fr Thomas who has been very approachable, understanding and caring to his parishioners.

The assembly then adjourned for a potluck fellowship in the church grounds with Fr Thomas. The food was contributed by the parishioners, parents of the 22 candidates as well as some well wishers from Seremban. — By Bernard Anthony