Wednesday was no ordinary day at Cristo Rey St. Viator. At the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a pair of students made their first Holy Communion.

Sebastian receives his first communion.

“We’re honored that our community has inspired some of our students to experience their First Communion with us,” school officials said.

With their families at their side, and in the midst of the entire school community, senior Dominick Hernandez and freshmen Sebastian Carrillo received the Eucharist for the first time from Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, President.

Emilia, Alan, Stephanie and Job reflect on the gospel.

“Both students came forth over the past few months asking if they could join in at the Eucharistic table,” Fr. von Behren says. “After a period of preparation, they received first communion witnessed by the entire school community. Members of their families, including their mothers, joined them at this special moment in their faith life.”

But that’s not all. Br. Carlos Florez, CSV, and Campus Minister Lucy Pena worked with more than 20 students to prepare them to participate in all parts of the Mass, including sharing their thoughts during the homily.

Campus Minister Lucy Pena, Fr. Tom von Behren and Br. Carlos Florez

Emilia Portelli, Alan Francisco and Job Sanchez, who attended the Viatorian Youth Congress in July, joined with their classmate, Stephanie, in interpreting the gospel reading.

Dominick receives his first communion.

“They shared their reflections on the gospel in which Peter walked toward Jesus on the water,” Fr. von Behren said. “Each student reflected from a different point of view, Jesus, Peter, the other disciples in the boat, and as an observer serving as narrator.”

It all added up to a meaningful start to the school year, with Viatorians living out their mission of accompanying young people in their faith development.

“The school community was able to witness the sharing of faith among their fellow students,” Fr. von Behren said. “It was very well received by all and other students expressed interest in sharing their faith in future school Masses.”