Parish MEDIA

On the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, St. Rita Catholic Church Olowu, Igangan, witnessed a beautiful celebration as 24 individuals received the sacrament of baptism. The day marked a special moment in the life of the Church, reflecting on Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River.

 

The ceremony, filled with joy and spiritual significance, highlighted the importance of baptism in Christian life. In his homily, Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Victor Ugbor reminded everyone that baptism cleanses us from original sin, makes us children of God, and members of the Church. "Whoever claims to believe in the doctrine of the Church and is not baptized, ipso facto, is not yet washed from original sin, not a child of God, and not a member of Church," he emphasized.

 

Fr. Ugbor admonished everyone that baptism is crucial in their Christian journey. He noted Jesus was baptized not out of necessity but to fulfill righteousness, cleanse baptismal waters, and set an example. He urged all to help others receive sacraments and not be stumbling blocks.

 

The priest thanked God for five children and three adults preparing for First Holy Eucharist, emphasizing the Eucharist as Christ's true body and blood. "Nourish your souls with the body of Christ - the bread of life," he said.

 

After the homily, the baptism rite unfolded: prayers, anointing with oil, renunciation of Satan, profession of faith, baptism, anointing with chrism oil, white cloth, and candles lit from the paschal candle. Three adults and five children then received First Holy Eucharist. Thanksgiving followed, filling the Church with joy.

 

 

The newly baptized, welcomed into the Church family, were celebrated with cheers and blessings from the congregation. St. Rita's continues to be a beacon of faith in Olowu, Igangan. This celebration added another beautiful chapter to her story.