A record of baptisms for the feast of the Assumption in Nepal

(August 17, 2011) Nepal had a record number of baptisms and First Communions on the feast of the Assumption, 15^th August. 30 children received baptism in the Cathedral of the Assumption of Kathmandu. According to the local Catholic leaders, this is the largest celebration of baptism since the fall of the Hindu monarchy in 2006. Among the baptized were five Africans, who arrived in Nepal with their parents who emigrated to work. In his homily, Bishop Anthony Sharma of Kathmandu emphasized the importance of baptism and communion on the day of the Assumption into heaven of the Virgin, and urged them to follow the example of Mary and be true disciples of Jesus. He said "I pray that you will all imitate Our Lady, and become true disciples of Jesus. "
Since 2006, with the fall of the Hindu-monarchy and the declaration of a secular state, Christians in Nepal have greater freedom of worship. The small Catholic community has seen a steady increase of the faithful and today there are about nine thousand. Even the number of Christians has been steadily growing and is now estimated at two million. The Catholic Church is active in education and operates 31 schools, eight in Kathmandu alone.