Let the little children come to me

During this season of Renewal, I would like to share the story of Ysabelle Galang - a living embodiment of pastoral renewal in our parish. Ysabelle is a young woman who just received her Sacrament of Confirmation last year.

As part of the preparation for Confirmation, our booklet required the confirmandi to complete a Mass book. This involved attending mass and answering specific questions related to the service, such as the opening song, the book of the Bible from which the Gospel was read, and reflections on the homily.

Ysabelle demonstrated great interest in this task, often asking me to help fill in any blanks she missed during mass. I would show her the Lectionary to reference the book. Her curiosity led to engaging dialogues during these encounters. Upon reviewing the rest of the confirmation booklet, she realized that she needed to serve the church or community in some capacity. When asked for suggestions, I proposed altar serving. She embraced this role with enthusiasm, attentiveness, and excellence.

After confirmation, Ysabelle began to contemplate other areas where she could serve. She felt drawn towards proclaiming the Word of God, which evolved into a calling to serve as a catechist in children's liturgy. Upon discussing this new development, I informed her that her mother, Bibiana, would need to assist, as the children's liturgy requires an adult with police clearance. Prompted by Ysabelle's persistence, Bibiana completed the necessary steps, allowing Ysabelle to serve in children's liturgy ever since. She also readily steps back into her role as an altar server when needed.

The beauty of being called to serve is its contagious nature.

Last year, the bishop resumed Confirmations in the parishes. One of the letters that stood out for him was from Sophia Nguyen, an ESPP program graduate from our school. After her Confirmation, Sophia expressed interest in serving in children's liturgy. I introduced her to Ysabelle, and now Sophia's mother is also undergoing the process to become a police-checked volunteer in the parish.

Witnessing God's call alive and active is truly wonderful: "Let the little children come to me," says the Lord.

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Written by Fr. James Hagel for Faithfully, pastor of St. Gabriel the Archangel, Chestermere.