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Bishop Cyril of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov Baptizes Children from Foster Families in Moscow Region
A Ceremony of Baptism
On Sunday, December 4, 2023, Bishop Cyril of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov performed a mass baptism ceremony for children from foster families in the Moscow region. The ceremony took place at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Sergiev Posad.
Bishop Cyril's Address
In his address to the children and their families, Bishop Cyril spoke about the importance of baptism and the role of the Church in the lives of the newly baptized. He emphasized that baptism is a sacrament that welcomes individuals into the Christian faith and grants them the grace of God.
The Sacrament of Baptism
The sacrament of baptism involves immersing the individual in water three times while invoking the name of the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This act signifies the individual's cleansing from sin and rebirth into a new life in Christ.
The Importance of Family
Bishop Cyril also stressed the crucial role of family in the spiritual development of children. He encouraged the foster parents to provide a loving and supportive environment for the newly baptized children and to guide them on their Christian journey.
Outreach to Foster Families
The baptism ceremony is part of an ongoing outreach program by the Diocese of Sergiev Posad and Dmitrov to provide support and guidance to foster families in the region. The diocese offers various programs, including counseling, spiritual guidance, and educational resources, to help foster families navigate the challenges of caring for children with diverse backgrounds and needs.
Conclusion
The baptism ceremony at the Holy Trinity Cathedral was a significant event for the children from foster families in the Moscow region. It marked their entry into the Christian faith and the beginning of their spiritual journey. The ceremony also highlighted the diocese's commitment to supporting and nurturing foster families in their role as caregivers and spiritual guides.