Catholic students across St. Maarten’s primary schools were still able to receive and celebrate their First Holy Communion this year, but the approach had to be a little different because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
They were divided into smaller groups than usual, and extra sanitation measures were taken, such as mask-wearing. Many students wore white masks, to match their elegant dresses and suits.
Six dedicated masses were scheduled at The Risen Christ Church in South Reward, starting on October 2, and concluding just a few days ago on November 22.
Leading the students for the special occasion were Parish Priest, Reverend Father Adam Oleszczuk SVD [Societas Verbi Divini] and Associate Pastor Reverend Father Ante Jeroncic SVD. Some 79 students received the sacrament, after preparing for two years.
“This was indeed a privilege, and must be received with an attitude of gratitude,” said Religious Education Coordinator Carmen Bowers-Lake, who extended a big congratulations to the students, their parents, guardians, and teachers on behalf of the Catholic School Board SKOS and the Parish Catechetical Programme Director, Mrs. Bernadine van Veen.
Picture shows students of St. Joseph and Sr. Regina primary schools.
