A sincere word of thanks to our nineteen young people in Primary Seven, your parents, grandparents and Fr Alwill, for a meaningful and symbolic shared Service of Light celebration within Sunday Mass in St Ninnidh’s Church on Sunday morning, last - 18th February - alongside your peers and neighbours from St Ninnidh’s Primary School.
As you listened to and reflected upon the words of Fr Alwill, you were reminded that, on the day of your Baptism, you became part of the Christian family. On that day and, once again, on Sunday, last, the symbol of your Baptismal candle, lit from the Paschal Candle, is a powerful acknowledgement that you invited, and continue to invite, the Light of Christ into your life. On Baptism day, parents, godparents and the wider faith community, were charged with the responsibility of keeping that light of faith enkindled in you. Our Service of Light - with the passing of the candle from your parent to you - and the Sacrament of Confirmation, itself, acknowledges that you now begin to accept this responsibility for yourself.
May Sunday’s ceremony prove to be a meaningful part of your continued preparation to receive Confirmation on 9th March, and, as Fr Alwill encouraged you: “Candidates for Confirmation, in receiving this candle, you are taking the first steps in confirming the promises made on your behalf in Baptism. Remember what your parents and guardians have said: Keep your faith. Treasure it. Share it. You are the light of the world.”
