FLORIDA: SACRAMENTS OF INITIATION CELEBRATED IN BELLE GLADE

(Belle Glade, Fla. – May 18) – At the Salesian parish of St. Philip Benizi in Belle Glade, 71 youngsters received their first Holy Communion on May 11. At St. Philip, kids receive first Communion in the 4th grade. They were joined in the sacrament by 3 adults. Fr. Matt DeGance, pastor, presided at the celebration. Part of his homily focused on St. Dominic Savio and his approach to the Eucharist along with his simple resolutions.

The parish’s catechists did a good job pouring a solid foundation this year. Children know all their prayers and basics of the faith especially regarding the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist.

On May 5, 59 candidates for Confirmation received that sacrament from Bishop Gerald Barbarito of West Palm Beach. He had three points in his simple, clear homily: Confirmation is a time for them to express faith in God, faith in themselves (each has been given specific gifts to be used in the specific mission he or she has received from God), and faith in the Church.