Mary Vitolo
St. Steven’s Catholic Church welcomed two adults and five young people into the Catholic faith on March 26 at the Easter vigil. The RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process is designed for adults, both young and old who are preparing to be baptized or come into full communion into the church. The ministry meets every Thursday evening and on Sunday at the 11:00 a.m. Mass. These adults have deepened their relationship with Jesus Christ through focusing on the Word of God each week. Their enthusiasm for the faith they are seeking is inspiring to all who witness their journey.
Along with the adults, five young people who are junior high and high school students were welcomed into the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil Mass on Saturday, March 26. Three students have been preparing for two years to proclaim their Profession of Faith and two received the Sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Communion. Congratulations!
On Tuesday, February 2, 42 students received the Sacraments of First Reconciliation. These students are primarily in the second grade. They have been preparing for this all year. Congratulations to our students and their families!
On Sunday, April 17, St. Steven’s will celebrate Confirmation Mass. The Most Reverend Eduardo Nevares, Auxiliary Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, will officiate. There are 48 students who will be confirmed; 32 students will also be receiving the Sacrament of First Holy Communion.
We warmly congratulate the adults and students along with their families.
If you are an adult who may be interested in finding out about the Catholic faith or if you know someone who may be interested in the process, call Carol at the parish office at 480-895-9266, ext. 105. Cheryl L. Keenan is the Coordinator for Religious Education and she may be reached at 480-895-9266, ext. 109.