The Sacrament of Confirmation rites was conferred upon 36, Form 5 catechism students. 29 of them were from SJC, 4 from SJC RCIA and 3 were from the Church of Risen Christ, Jalan Ipoh on July 2nd 2016, a significantly memorable day in the life of these students. Mass was presided by His Grace Archbishop Julian Leow with Rev. Fr. George Packiasamy con-celebrating the Holy Eucharist which was animated by the parents and godparents of the Confirmands.

Most of the Confirmands had built a kinship lasting from 11 years back as they had journeyed deeper into their faith life. Friendships were initially bonded whilst in their First Holy Communion Camp and continued blossoming throughout until now in their confirmation camp.

His Grace Archbishop Julian Leow’s profoundly spiritual homily would have definitely been embedded into the Confirmands hearts. His Grace, congratulated the Confirmands welcoming them as “full fledged” responsible young adults of the Catholic Church. His Grace also advised the Confirmands in his closing that the rites did not mean freedom from the Catholic Church life instead it meant the beginning in working and serving the Lord as full fledged Catholic adults.

Rev. Fr. George in his congratulatory praise message termed the Confirmands as “Free Birds”, a terminology to explain even though free from Catechism classes the Confirmands were now responsible members in the Church chronology. Advising the Confirmands that it was now their freedom in choosing “to walk with and along” Jesus’ path as they stepped out into the fields of their lives. The Holy Spirit will be their “Tutor” for the rest of their lives. He would equip them with the spiritual knowledge and guidance in their individual callings.

A week after being confirmed the Confirmands partook in a weekend retreat on July 9th and 10th, 2016 organised by the Catechetical Ministry themed “Building Bridges in the Spirit of the Beatitudes” in line with “YOM”. The Confirmands completed the retreat by giving thanks and animating the 6.00 pm Sunday mass. Followed by a simple fellowship in the SJC Hall where the Confirmands were presented with their Confirmation Certificates, ending their truly memorable journey.

To all the Confirmands… “May the graces of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Live of God and the Fellowship of The Holy Spirit be with you all,” 2 Cor 13:14.

by the Catechetical Ministry.