by Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

The Sacrament of Confirmation was celebrated with great solemnity at Sacred Heart Parish, Yerwada, on January 11, 2025. Right Reverend Bishop John Rodrigues administered the sacrament to 44 candidates from the parish who were well-prepared for this significant step in their spiritual journey. The celebration began with a grand procession, followed by a Solemn Eucharistic celebration. Fr Michael Fernades, the Parish Priest, Fr Alex Carvalho, the Assistant Parish Priest and Bishop John Rodrigues were present for this service.

Fr Michael initiated the ceremony by reading out the names of the candidates who were ready to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Bishop John Rodrigues presided over the Eucharistic celebration. In his homily, he reflected on the importance of maintaining a strong connection with God, comparing it to how people rely on their mobile phones and become restless when the connection is lost. He explained that the Sacrament of Confirmation strengthens the bond between Baptism and the faithful, linking them more deeply with Christ. He urged the candidates to nurture their faith with God’s grace and reminded them that Jesus, through His death and resurrection, restored this connection for humanity. He further emphasized that the gifts of the Holy Spirit empower us to grow in our relationship with God and become mature Christians 

Following the homily, the candidates renewed their baptismal promises by lighting the candles symbolizing their commitment to their faith. The Bishop then prayed over the candidates, invoking the Holy Spirit to come upon them. One of the most moving moments of the ceremony was the anointing the foreheads of the candidates with Chrism oil, as Bishop Rodrigues sealed each candidate with the Holy Spirit, saying, "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit," to which each candidate responded, "Amen." The parents and families of the candidates joined in offering prayers and thanksgiving, acknowledging the grace of God bestowed upon their children.

The Mass continued with its usual liturgy, enriched by the active participation of the faithful. The offerings presented by the families symbolized their gratitude and dedication. The church was filled with a large number of parishioners, who witnessed this sacred ceremony with joy and reverence.

After the Eucharistic celebration, a group photo was clicked with the Bishop, capturing the joyful moments of this spiritual milestone. The candidates were then presented with Confirmation certificates and a Bible Diary. The event concluded on a delightful note, leaving a deep impression on all present. 

While sharing the experience one of the candidates shared, “It felt like God was truly present in that moment when the Bishop anointed me. I could feel the Holy Spirit filling me with strength and courage."

 Another candidate said, “The renewal of the baptismal promises made me reflect on my journey of faith and how I want to live as a true follower of Christ.”

The candidates also appreciated the meaningful homily by Bishop John Rodrigues, which inspired them to see their Confirmation as a responsibility to grow in their faith and live as soldiers of Christ.

Fr Michael Fernandes ended the service by thanking the catechism teachers the candidates their parents and Bishop Rodrigues for their invaluable contributions.