At our mission home, the Sanctuary, four girls — aged 3, 5, 6, and 7 — were lovingly brought to the font of new life. Though their mothers are Catholic, the children had not yet received the Sacrament of Baptism. After a time of encouragement and preparation, the little ones were joyfully baptized during the Holy Mass on February 22nd, marking a truly grace-filled day for our community.

The mothers, who regularly attend the Filipino community Mass, faithfully bring their children along. Born and raised in Korea, however, the little ones do not understand English or Filipino; they simply accompany their mothers to church, following with childlike trust.

Before the ceremony, the meaning of Baptism was gently explained to the children, and when asked if they desired to receive it, each one joyfully responded, “Yes!”

Finally, the long-awaited day arrived! Three of the girls came dressed in traditional Hanbok, while the youngest, at three years old, wore a lovely outfit befitting the occasion. The Mass was presided over by a Filipino priest from the Order of St. Augustine. Since the ceremony was to be conducted in English, there was concern that the children might not understand. With pastoral kindness, the priest graciously agreed to celebrate the rite in Korean, ensuring that the little ones could fully receive and recognize the beauty of the Sacrament.

Thanks to the gentle orientation beforehand, the children remained calm and beautifully composed throughout the ceremony. Not a single child cried, even as the priest poured the baptismal waters over their heads. When told that “God the Daddy” would lovingly watch over them with His grace, their faces lit up with happiness.

Despite the challenges, we hold firm in our hope that these children will grow in health, liveliness, and beauty, sustained always by God’s abundant grace