Children from Manila’s slums baptized

About 450 children from urban poor communities in Philippine capital Manila have received the sacrament of baptism from Cardinal Luis Tagle.

The prelate told those who attended a Sept. 28 ceremony at the Manila cathedral that the sacrament of baptism is a “grace” from God  with no price tag.

“And because it is a grace, it is for all,” said the cardinal. “Being simple and poor are never obstacles to receiving the grace of God.”

Many of the children who were baptized were under the care of a foundation called Tulay ng Kabataan, or Bridge for Children, which helps abandoned children and those living in the streets.

An aim is to restore the dignity of children who often have to scavenge for food.

The foundation has helped more than 55,000 minors during the past 21 years, with at least 1,300 children now assisted on a daily basis.

In 2015, Pope Francis visited one of the Manila centers.

In 2017, the foundation facilitated the baptism of 400 indigent children.

Executive direct Father Matthieu Dauchez said poor children often do not get baptized because parents think it would cost them money.

“We observed that poor families think that there is a fee, although sacraments are for free,” said the priest.

He said it is the Church’s responsibility to bring the faith closer to those who have less in life.

While it could be difficult to bring “wounded children” close to God, it was easy to bring the Lord to them through sacraments, Father Dauchez said.

In his homily, Cardinal Tagle reflected on the “parental duty” of transmitting faith in the home.

“Let us raise our children as good followers of Jesus, good members of the Church and responsible citizens of this country,” he added.