By Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

The Sacrament of Confirmation was solemnly celebrated at Sacred Heart Parish, Yerwada on February 14, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bernard Lancy Pinto, Bishop of the Diocese of Aurangabad. The concelebrants for the Mass were Fr Crispino D’Souza, the Rector; Fr Michael Fernandes, Parish Priest; Fr Glen Fernandes, the Principal; Fr Gregory D’Cunha, Administrator; along with Fr Alex Carvalho. The liturgy was prayerful and well-organised, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere for the candidates receiving the Sacrament. Twenty-three children received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

The celebration began with a meaningful procession led by the students who were to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. They walked reverently towards the altar, symbolising their readiness to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit and to take responsibility for their faith journey. The faithful actively participated in the hymns and prayers, making the Eucharistic celebration lively and faith-filled. The parish choir led the congregation in soulful singing, helping everyone to enter into the spirit of prayer and thanksgiving. The reverent participation of parents, godparents, catechism teachers, and parishioners reflected the strong sense of community support for the candidates on this important day of grace and spiritual growth.

In his homily, Bishop Lancy Pinto spoke in simple and practical words about the challenges young people face in today’s world. He explained that it is often difficult to choose between what is right and what is wrong, as many distractions can easily lead a person towards the wrong path. He referred to the biblical story where God asked King Solomon what he desired most. Solomon chose wisdom over riches and power, and God was pleased with his choice. The Bishop encouraged the candidates to ask God for wisdom so that they may make the right choices in their daily lives and remain faithful in their decisions.

The Bishop further explained the meaning of Confirmation by using the example of a seed. Just as a seed must be nurtured with soil, water, and sunlight to grow into a healthy plant, the Sacrament of Confirmation also needs to be nurtured through prayer and a close relationship with God. He encouraged the candidates to pray the Rosary regularly, read the Bible daily, and attend church faithfully, so that they may remain on the right path and grow strong in their faith.

This was followed by the offertory procession, during which candles, certificates, bread, and wine were offered at the altar, symbolising the faith and commitment of the candidates. At the end of the Mass, Ms Lavena proposed the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Lancy Pinto and all the priests at the altar for their guidance and support. She also thanked the catechism teachers who prepared the children for the Sacrament and the parents for their constant encouragement. The Holy Mass concluded with the distribution of certificates to the confirmed students, marking the joyful completion of the celebration.