St. Edward Parish in Fulton is filled to capacity for the May 5, 2024 Confirmation and First Holy Communion celebrations. COURTESY OF SUSIE FENWICK
St. Edward Parish hosts historic Confirmation and First Communion celebration
BY SUSIE FENWICK, SPECIAL TO THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit at St. Edward Parish in Fulton, home to a vibrant Hispanic/Latino faith community, took place on May 5, 2024. On the beautiful spring afternoon 15 Latino youth received the Sacrament of Confirmation and an additional five Latino children received First Holy Communion.
St. Edward parishioners, along with family and friends, filled the church to capacity, while Bishop William F. Medley, celebrating the bilingual Mass in Spanish and English, confirmed the candidates and gave Communion to those celebrating First Holy Communion. Fr. Robert Drury concelebrated the Mass while Deacons Brent Kimbler and Hal Jones assisted.
Bishop William F. Medley presides at the May 5, 2024 Mass at St. Edward Parish in Fulton, with pastor Fr. Robert Drury concelebrating. Deacons Brent Kimbler and Hal Jones assist. COURTESY OF SUSIE FENWICK
The Confirmation candidates wore flaming red garments to symbolize the fire of the Holy Spirit, as hands were laid upon them and they were sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and strengthened for service to the Body of Christ.
This Mass was historical for St. Edward Parish both in the number of those confirmed and receiving Holy First Communion, as well as in that both groups consisted entirely of members of the Latino community. Within a month of Fr. Drury’s retirement, the occasion is sure to prove to be a highlight of his many years of priesthood including the last 10 as pastor of St. Edward Parish.
The joyful celebration continued after Mass with a reception featuring a bountiful feast of Latin American cuisine.
Bishop William F. Medley confirms a youth during a joint May 5, 2024 Confirmation and First Holy Communion celebration at St. Edward Parish in Fulton. COURTESY OF SUSIE FENWICK
Youths to be confirmed on May 5, 2024, stand within St. Edward Parish in Fulton. COURTESY OF SUSIE FENWICK
Five young boys, who will receive their First Holy Communion on May 5, 2024 at St. Edward Parish in Fulton, are seen in the front pew during Mass. COURTESY OF SUSIE FENWICK
Susie Fenwick belongs to St. Edward Parish in Fulton.
