At least 139 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Catholic Diocese of Rajshahi on Wednesday, February 2, Feast of the Presentation of the Lord.
“We offer our first produce, such as crops, vegetable, and livestock to God according to our Christian culture,” said Bishop Gervas Rozario of Rajshahi in his homily during the occasion.
“At the same time, we offer our children for the work of God in His vineyard,” he added.
“Confirmation” is a sacrament of the Catholic Church that is mostly received by children after being introduced to the faith.
About a thousand people witnessed the ceremony that was attended, aside from the bishop, by ten priests and four nuns who assisted in the celebration at the end of a nine-day prayer for their spiritual preparation.
Bishop Gervas told the children that through the Sacrament of Confirmation they will “receive the Holy Spirit in your hearts.”
“You will be marked with a special symbol …. The Holy Spirit will mark his name in your hearts,” said the prelate.
“The Holy Spirit will always be with you, giving you strength, courage, and enlighten you to do good works,” said the bishop, adding that “from now on you will be soldiers of Christ.”
“It’s a joyful day,” said parish priest Prodip Costa. He described the day as “a reminder of our total dedication to God … not only for the priests, nuns and brothers, but also for couples who also offer themselves to God.”
“This feast day reminds us and encourages us to dedicate our lives to God,” said the priest. “It’s a day for thanksgiving and gratitude to God,” said Father Costa.
