By Magdaline anak Salin
KOTA PADAWAN — On 12 October 2024, 409 children from St Ann’s Parish came together in St Ann’s Church to partake in the Worldwide Children’s Eucharistic Holy Hour. The enthusiastic and lively group included youths from the parish’s Saturday Catechism (Levels 1–10), RCIC and RCIA groups, Confirmation groups and students from nine parish mission primary schools.
Many children participated in the programme, as well as musicians and choir members, flower presenters, candle holders and Rosary leaders. Held by St Ann’s Parish Ministry of Catechism, the event gathered children aged seven and above for the 22nd Worldwide Children’s Eucharistic Holy Hour, which coincided with the 107th anniversary of the apparition of Mother Mary in Fatima. Another major goal was to aid children in understanding the spiritual significance of their involvement, creating a sense of grace, peace, and safety in the world.
The Eucharistic Holy Hour was led by Friar Nelson Evarinus Sipalan, OFM, priest of St Ann’s Church. In her opening address, Marianna Matthew Beno, who coordinates the ministry of catechism, thanked everyone for attending, especially the parents for their support in deepening their children’s spiritual formation through this programme, as supplementary to their religious classes that are conducted every week.
The event, which lasted roughly an hour and a half, ended with a potluck dinner made primarily by the parents.
