By ANA LIZA L. REVIDAD
In a profound testament to faith, conversion, and the boundless embrace of the Catholic Church, St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish recently welcomed a new member into its fold—one whose spiritual journey led him from another religious tradition to the fullness of Catholic life. This momentous occasion was marked by the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation, celebrating his full initiation into the Christian faith.
A calling to the Catholic Faith
The journey of this PREX (Parish Renewal Experience) graduate began with a deep personal search for truth, love, and a greater connection with God. Having grown up in a different religious tradition, he had always been guided by a strong spiritual foundation. However, through years of seeking, questioning, and experiencing God’s grace, he found himself drawn to the Catholic faith.
His participation in the PREX seminar last January 2025 at St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish became a turning point. The warmth of the community, the depth of Catholic teachings, and the power of the sacraments ignited a profound desire in him to fully embrace the faith. Inspired by the words of Christ and the testimonies of his fellow parishioners, he made the courageous decision to formally enter the Catholic Church.
The Sacraments of Invitation
On this special day, surrounded by PREX family, friends, and the supportive members of the parish, he received the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation—two pivotal milestones in his journey of faith.
Through the waters of Baptism, he was cleansed of sin and reborn as a child of God, symbolizing his new life in Christ. Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, invoking the Holy Trinity, poured water over his head, officially welcoming him into the Catholic Church. It was a moment of grace, joy, and renewal, reflecting the words of 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.”
Following his Baptism, he received the Sacrament of Confirmation, where Fr. Paulo, the Vicar Forane of the St. Stephen Vicariate anointed him with the sacred chrism, sealing him with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This sacrament strengthened his faith, empowering him to live out his Catholic beliefs with courage, conviction, and love.
A Community’s Celebration
The entire parish of St. Stephen Protomartyr rejoiced in this moment, recognizing not only the significance of his personal journey but also the beauty of God’s ever-present invitation to all. His conversion serves as a powerful reminder that the Church is a home for everyone, welcoming those who seek truth and unity with Christ.
The parish priest, in his homily, reflected on the importance of embracing new members into the faith, encouraging the community to continue fostering a spirit of love, understanding, and evangelization. Parishioners, friends, and fellow PREX graduates gathered to celebrate, offering their prayers and support as he embarked on this new chapter of his spiritual life.
A Future Rooted in Faith
Now a fully initiated Catholic, this PREX graduate looks forward to deepening his faith through active participation in the Church’s sacraments, ministries, and service. With a heart full of gratitude, he hopes to be an instrument of God’s love, sharing his testimony to inspire others who may be on a similar journey.
His story is a beautiful reflection of God’s unwavering call to His children, proving that faith is not bound by past traditions but is instead a personal relationship with Christ—one that is open to all who seek Him.
As St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish continues its mission of evangelization, this event stands as a beacon of hope, reminding the faithful that God’s grace knows no bounds. The Catholic Church, as a mother, welcomes all with open arms, rejoicing as another soul finds its way home.
Welcome to the Catholic Church
