"The Laying of Hands "

The ‘Entrance Day’ for the freshers was on 2nd July when they began their Second Probation in the Society of Jesus. We were nourished by the celebration of the Eucharist. After the Communion, a hymn was sung followed by a prayer for the descent of the Holy Spirit. The freshers then recited 'The prayer of a Novice on the Entance day.' Soon after the prayer, there was "the ceremony of the laying of hands" on the first year Novices. The imposition of hands has a 3-fold significance. Firstly, it is the gesture of invoking the gift of the Holy Spirit. Secondly, it is a symbol of welcoming a new entrant into the community. Thirdly, it reminds one of the mission s/he receives at Baptism.