Welcomed in the name of Christ

Today the Church joyfully welcomed four wonderful people who, moved by the love of the Holy Spirit, expressed their heartfelt desire to become a part of the Roman Catholic Church, part of the Body of Christ. Alison, who is not baptised, celebrated her Rite of Acceptance and Stuart, Judy and Matt their Rite of Welcome. At each Mass the Church rejoiced in God having lead them here, His taking them by the hand and bringing them into the oneness of faith and, in prayer, welcomed them in the name of Christ.

They were each signed with the cross on their forehead by the priest and then their sponsors signed each of their senses. For the first time they all put on Christ as it were and opened themselves, every part of themselves, to God's word, to His will. It was powerful and beautiful to watch.

Receive the sign of the cross on your forehead.  It is Christ himself who now strengthens you with this sign of his love.

Receive the sign of the cross on your ears, that you may hear the voice of the Lord.

Receive the sign of the cross on your eyes,  that you may see the glory of God.

Receive the sign of the cross on your lips, that you may respond to the word of God.

Receive the sign of the cross over your heart, that Christ may dwell there by faith.

Receive the sign of the cross on your shoulders, that you may bear the gentle yoke of Christ.

Receive the sign of the cross on your hands, that Christ may be known in the work which you do.

Receive the sign of the cross on your feet, that you may walk in the way of Christ.

From left to right; Fr. Richard, Robin (Stuart's sponsor), Stuart,
Alison, Margaret (Alison's sponsor) and Fr. Aaron

From left to right; Judy, her sponsor, Fr. Aaron, Deacon Tom,
Matt's sponsor and Matt

Please pray for Alison (a catechumen), Stuart, Judy and Matt (all candidates) as they take this next exciting and life changing step into the Church...and pray that many, many more will follow them!