Dublin Diocese has recently seen 80 catechumens being elected for the Easter sacraments. Archbishop Dermot Farrell, who witnessed this occasion on Sunday, March 9, shared his joy at the growing number of individuals seeking to deepen their faith. During his homily, the archbishop expressed that this is a sign of hope for the Church in Dublin.
Catechumens
Patricia Carroll, the Director for Mission and Ministry for the Dublin Diocese, was moved by the growth in catechumens. She said, “The numbers have doubled from last year, and it’s clear that young adults want to know about the Catholic faith and want to join us. So, in this year of hope, it’s a big, big, hopeful message.”
Among the new catechumens is Alan Maizon, a candidate for confirmation who shared his feelings about the ceremony. “Everything was perfect. The ceremony and the presence of the Bishop. I feel the presence of the Holy Spirit and indeed, I’m excited about this journey,” Alan said. “I just know that the love of Jesus is for everybody, and we are all sons of God, and the love is His presence in His Church and all the people.”
For Alan, the journey toward confirmation is about more than just participating in a ceremony. It’s about making a firm decision to commit to God and to the community. “The confirmation is my decision to be committed to God and just show love to all my brothers and sisters,” he said. However, Alan recognises the challenges that come with this commitment, particularly in staying true to one’s faith when facing worldly temptations. “The most challenging part is the commitment itself,” Alan reflected. “To be a good Christian depends on how much you commit to your church and your community. Don’t get isolated and don’t fall into the temptations of the world. Be more charitable. Set your mind on things above.”
The journey toward confirmation is about more than just participating in a ceremony. It’s about making a firm decision to commit to God and to the community”
For Thiago Santos Vinhas, another candidate on the path to joining the Catholic Church, the ceremony is a moment that will stay with him forever. “My hope is committing to pray more, to be entirely committed to the Church, and to keep learning about my faith,” he said.
Raul Oliveira Franca, another catechumen, expressed his gratitude for the experience, particularly the words of the Bishop. Raul also acknowledged the struggles he faces in his spiritual journey, “The most challenging thing has been praying every day,” he said.
Ariane Martinez Gregorio told this paper, “I didn’t know what to do during the ceremony, but it was so beautiful,” she said. Ariane is eager for the moment when she will receive her baptism and confirmation. “I cannot wait,” she said. “I’m sorry for those who have not encountered God yet. They’re losing their time because there is no better life than to be with God.”
Just have faith and open your eyes, open your ears, and let yourself be embraced by God”
Elisa Margareth described the ceremony as “blessed” and expressed her desire to deepen her connection with God. “I’ll try to increase even more prayer and trust in all of what Jesus wants us to do,” Elisa said. “I would say it’s always time, because God is always calling us, and it’s never too late.”
For Daniel Vicario Alcobendas, after this ceremony will start a time of reflection and spiritual preparation. “My hope is that the Lord will prepare my heart for the sacraments of baptism and communion that I’m taking on the Easter vigil,” Daniel said. “I hope this period could be a true conversion period.”
Vincent Marie Dupont, also shared his joy and anticipation for the upcoming sacraments. “It was lovely. There was a lot of enthusiasm within the church. Everybody seemed really happy, including the sponsors,” he said. “I’m about to receive baptism and follow the path of the faith… Just have faith and open your eyes, open your ears, and let yourself be embraced by God.”
Hope
The energy and enthusiasm of these catechumens, along with the encouragement of their mentors and spiritual leaders, as Archbishop Farrell and Patricia Carroll said, are a sign of hope for the future of the Church in Dublin.
