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45 CHILDREN RECEIVE THE SACRAMENT OF BAPTISM AT QUIAPO CHURCH IN HONOR OF ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

Jun. 29, 2026 03:34 PM

Quiapo, Manila, Philippines – June 21, 2026

As part of the preparations for the celebration of the Solemnity of St. John the Baptist, Titular Patron of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Jesus Nazareno and Parish of St. John the Baptist (Quiapo Church) on June 24, 2026, nearly forty-five children were welcomed into the Catholic faith through the Sacrament of Baptism on June 21, 2026.

The sacred rite was administered at Quiapo Church by Rev. Fr. Richard Lim, together with Rev. Fr. Robert Arellano, LRMS, and Rev. Fr. Jupiter Diloy. Family members, godparents, and parishioners gathered in prayer and thanksgiving as the children received the first of the Sacraments of Christian Initiation, marking the beginning of their journey as members of the Body of Christ.

The celebration holds special significance as the Church prepares to honor St. John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ who baptized Jesus in the waters of the River Jordan. Through his ministry, St. John recognized and proclaimed Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah, calling people to repentance and conversion of heart.

The baptism of these forty-five children serves as a powerful reminder of Jesus’ own Baptism in the Jordan River. Just as Christ entered into His public mission following His baptism, these newly baptized children are now united with Him and incorporated into His Church through the cleansing waters of rebirth and the gift of the Holy Spirit.

The Catholic Church teaches that through Baptism, every Christian shares in the threefold mission of Christ: the Priestly Mission, by offering their lives in prayer and worship to God; the Prophetic Mission, by witnessing to the Gospel and proclaiming the truth of Christ through word and example; and the Kingly Mission, by serving others with charity, justice, and love. These gifts, received through Baptism, call every believer to live as faithful disciples of Jesus throughout their lives.

As the Church celebrates the birth and witness of St. John the Baptist, the baptism of these children stands as a sign of hope and renewal for the Christian community. It reflects the continuing mission of the Church to bring souls closer to Christ and to nurture future generations in the faith.

May the example of St. John the Baptist inspire these newly baptized children and their families to grow in holiness, faith, and love for God. As they begin their Christian journey, may they always remember their baptismal calling to live as priestly, prophetic, and kingly disciples of Christ. Let us continue to pray for them, that guided by the grace of God and the intercession of St. John the Baptist and Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno, they may faithfully walk in the light of Christ and become living witnesses of the Gospel in the world.

“I have baptized you with water; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit.” (Mark 1:8)

 

 

 

 

-Gerald Lim | Article Writer Coordinator, SOCOM-Quiapo