June 1, 2021

Bishop celebrates first Communion and confirmation at St. Paul Parish

REGIONAL
Story and photos by Carolee McGrath

SPRINGFIELD – On May 30, the feast of the Holy Trinity, the parish community of St. Paul the Apostle Parish in Springfield celebrated 16 confirmations and seven first Communions.

Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne was the principal celebrant of the 11 a.m. Mass, which was concelebrated by Father Ha Dang, the pastor, and Father Sinh Hong Trinh, parochial vicar of the parish.

“You’re on a special mission,” Bishop Byrne told the youth, explaining that God is calling them to be witnesses in their schools and community. “He is sending you on special ops – the place where he needs you to go most.”

The confirmations and first Communions had been delayed last year due to the pandemic.

“We had to wait for two classes to have confirmation together. We’re also happy to join with first Communion together, so that’s why we have this beautiful community together today,” said Father Dang.

At the beginning of Mass, several young girls did a liturgical dance dedicated to the Blessed Mother, placing flowers at a statue on the altar.

In addition, Bishop Byrne also blessed two new statues of the Blessed Mother paid for by donations from parishioners. The shrine to the Blessed Mother is located at the entrance of the church.

“St. Paul’s is a vibrant community. It was great, after people had been delayed for the sacraments to be able to celebrate both first Communion and confirmation,” said Bishop Byrne.

St. Paul’s has an active youth group, made up of close to 100 young people.

“They’re not the future of the church, these kids are the present of the church. This is today. They need to be evangelizing with their friends and families, bring people to the Lord today,” the bishop said.

The bishop personalized his homily, speaking directly to the youth making their sacraments, and quizzing the confirmation sponsors as well.

“I think it’s very important for my faith and as a grown person to continue to receive the Eucharist,” said Tina Nguyen, a junior at Longmeadow High School. Nguyen, who chose Faustina as her confirmation name, thanked the congregation at the close of Mass on behalf of all of the youth.

“I’m happy to receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ,” said 9-year-old Danny Vo, who made his first Communion. When asked why he was happy, he said, “Jesus died for us.”

The parish will also be extending the parish center, where a reception was held following Mass.