Baptism not for Easter Mass

I imagine that for all Catholics, to attend a beautiful sung Mass on Easter Sunday morning must be one of the most joyous occasions of the year; the glorious resurrection of Christ is the day of all days in the Christian calendar.

I was so looking forward to this occasion. Sadly, this was not to be. My joy soon turned to fury when I discovered that this wonderful occasion was to be overshadowed with children’s baptisms.

Baptisms should be a private family ceremony, not for a large congregation who come to church for Easter Sunday Mass.

After being in church for a whole hour, the baptisms were still dragging on. I am afraid that at that moment my fury got the better of me, so along with others, I walked out.

I shudder to think how many people went to church that Sunday who attend Mass only a few times in a year. If I was one of them, I doubt if I would ever have returned.

Many a Catholic has returned to the faith by attending Mass on special days. Lets keep it like it should be. With screaming children and the agonising length of some of these services, one can’t help but think that perhaps private prayers in the serenity of one’s home may just be the answer, along with some inspiration from Vatican broadcasts.

When I finally got home, my fury gradually disappeared as I was able to watch Mass from the Vatican on DStv, and thereafter the papal blessing.

I pray our priests will not kill our wonderful faith by detracting from the celebration of the day. There is a time and place for all our ceremonies. Please let the Mass continue to be the Mass only.

Vincent Edwards, Johannesburg