As we celebrate the Easter season, The Tablet would like to offer a warm welcome to the many new Catholics making their sacraments on Holy Saturday at the Easter Vigil Mass.

In the Diocese of Brooklyn, 683 catechumens will enter the Church for the first time by receiving baptism, confirmation, and the Eucharist. 

There are an additional 605 candidates who will come into full communion with the Church by receiving both the sacraments of confirmation and the Eucharist.

These are very encouraging numbers for all of us to celebrate.

Together, these 1,288 newly-initiated Catholics represent God’s grace and a powerful sign of hope for our local Church. 

In a world sometimes challenged by uncertainty and division, their affirming “yes” answer to Jesus Christ and His Church gives witness to the enduring attraction of the Gospel.

The Easter Vigil is the most solemn and joyful liturgy of the entire year. 

As the Paschal Candle is lit and voices rise in song, the darkness of the church will give way to the brilliant light of the Resurrection. 

On that holy night, our catechumens will be born anew before the font of baptism, rising with Christ to new life. 

Our candidates will be sealed with the Holy Spirit and invited to the Eucharistic table, where we are all one in the Body of Christ.

To each of you, who journeyed through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA), know that you are not merely joining a Church.

No, you are becoming part of the mystical Body of Christ, embraced by the saints in heaven and the faithful on earth. 

The diocese would certainly like to thank the pastors, OCIA coordinators, sponsors, and parishioners who have brought these new Catholics through months of prayer, formation, and discernment. 

Your patient guidance and loving witness have borne abundant fruit.

To the families and friends of our new Catholics: Rejoice with them. Your love and support have helped bring them to this moment of grace.

As we celebrate the Resurrection of Our Lord, let us all renew our own baptismal promises.

May we commit ourselves again to living as joyful disciples, ready to welcome, support, and accompany these newest members of the Church in the days and years ahead.

Dear catechumens and candidates: Welcome home. 

The diocese rejoices with the angels and saints on this most holy night. 

May the light of the risen Christ burn brightly within you always, and may you grow daily in faith, hope, and charity.

Happy Easter to all.