Initiation joy for Auckland’s Chinese Catholic community

After months of prayer, learning, fellowship and preparation through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, 66 catechumens and candidates were welcomed and received one or more sacraments at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Herne Bay on May 9.

Their journey began in September last year under the guidance of Fr Peter Choy, with dedicated catechists and assistants serving Mandarin-speaking, Cantonese-speaking and youth groups. The catechumens gathered every Saturday afternoon for formation before attending the Mandarin Mass together. Many also joined the Alpha course from February to April, spending both Saturdays and Sundays immersed in faith and community life.

On May 9 there were 15 Baptisms for children under 10 years old, and 49 candidates received full initiation – Baptism, Confirmation and First Eucharist – and two received Confirmation.

An Auckland Diocese Facebook post stated: “Behind every number is a story – stories of faith, courage, conversion, families, friendship and the gentle call of God. We give thanks to all our catechists, volunteers, sponsors, families and the Chinese community who walked alongside them throughout this journey.”

The post asked for prayers for “all our newly initiated brothers and sisters . . . as they begin this new chapter of life in Christ”.

FULL STORY

Celebration of new life and faith in Christ (Catholic Diocese of Auckland/Facebook)