St. Maria Goretti Parish celebrated Pentecost

On Sunday, June 4, St. Maria Goretti Parish celebrated Pentecost with a Mass to honor the babies who were baptized in that parish this past year.

Pentecost, the moment 50 days after Easter when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples of Jesus, is considered the birthday of the Catholic Church. It seemed particularly fitting to welcome the recently baptized babies with a communal renewal of baptismal vows, sprinkling of holy water, and blessing on the families who will be raising the next generation of faithful.

A special musical ensemble, led by Lynnfield Catholic Collaborate Director of Music, Jayson Cote, was assembled for this Mass. Afterwards, everyone was invited to join in a delicious collation that was also prepared with loving attention to detail to embrace these littlest parishioners and their families into the faith community.

Photos: Evan and Ashley Protasowicki with baby Leonel; Caroline Swiatkowski with mom Lindsay; Shea Flanagan shaking the hand of Deacon Tom O'Shea's while Shea's dad Christopher Flanagan looks on; Jodi Hagen playing the violin. Photos by Marie Lagman