Chicago: The joyous celebration of First Holy Communion for the angelic children of the Sacred Heart Knanaya Catholic Forane Parish, Bensenville, will be held in a prayerful and solemn manner on Saturday, May 23, at 4:00 PM under the main celebrancy of parish vicar Fr. Abraham Kalariykkal.

The vicar stated that the celebration at Sacred Heart Church should become a truly blessed occasion not only through beautiful and well-organized arrangements, but also through the prayerful presence and participation of the entire parish community. Knanaya Region Director Fr. Thomas Mulavanaal, St. Mary’s Church vicar Fr. Siju Mudakkodiyil, and assistant vicar Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil will serve as co-celebrants during the sacred ceremonies.

Leadership for the grand celebration is being provided by the parents, church executive members Thomas Kunnumpurath, Mathias Pullappallil, Abraham Areechirayil, Jaimon Padinjareel, Ebin Kulathinkarottu, religious education director Colleen Keezhangattu, teachers Ancy Chelaykkal and Manju Chakiriyamthadathil, and coordinator Nithin Kunnumpurath.

The children receiving First Holy Communion this year are: Abel Abraham Kochumannathara, Adeline-Ashlyn Vanchipuraykkal, Asher Thomas Mundupalathingal, Siya Deepu Arikkattu, Elisa Joseph, Hana Kuryachan Karottumannakulathil, Isaiah T. Simon Mundaplackal, Jacob Abraham Nedunthuruthil, Jaden Maniparambil, Jessica Puthusseril, Jonathan Anchukandathil, Justina John Oravakkuzhiyil, Meeval Puthusseril, Noah Abraham Karappillil, Noah Thomas Kunnumpurath, Raylin Anna Kannala, Neil Cheruvil, Jonathan Plamparambil, and Ava Mary Melandasheril.

Following the liturgical celebrations, a reception for the children, cultural programs, and a fellowship banquet have been arranged in the parish hall. The parents of the children also specially requested the faithful of the parish to prayerfully prepare for this blessed occasion and participate in the ceremonies from beginning to end.

— Lins Thannichuvattil, PRO