SHC organises fellowship night for neophytes and confirmands

KOTA KINABALU – The newly confirmed, together with the neophytes from the Sacred Heart Cathedral Parish, were given a rousing welcome as they turned up for a Fellowship Night at the parish hall Jun 8 to mark the milestone of their becoming a confirmed Catholic.

285 young people were confirmed at Sacred Heart Cathedral on May 11, 2014.  Confirmation is a rite of initiation in a Catholic person’s journey of faith.    It carries with it a spiritual, sacred and permanent sign or seal that marks the Christian as a witness of Christ through the action of the Holy Spirit. It “renders the bond with the Church more perfect”, because, while a baptized person is already a member, “reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace”.  Outwardly it appears to be carried out through anointing, the laying on of hands, and prayer, but its spiritual significance goes far beyond that.

Archbishop John Wong, accompanied by Archbishop Emeritus John Lee, graced the occasion.  Also present were the priests and deacons of the parish. The evening was made lively with the neophytes providing entertainment with sketches and performances. Everyone was treated to ample food which was prepared by the Catholic Women’s League. – Greg Matanjun