Confirmation

Dear Nick,

As you prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation please know that we have you in our prayers.

I was in the 8th grade when I made my Confirmation and I remember being afraid that the Bishop would ask me a question I couldn't answer. But on the big day I was relieved as the Bishop allowed us to raise our hands if we wanted to answer so there was no scary pressure. I also realized during the ceremony how much this meant to me...to be considered a true adult of the church. I had to study a lot but I was feeling pretty good about going into the next part of my life with God.

Usually the Holy Spirit is shown as a dove or as a tongue of fire. I guess because it is hard to draw what the Holy Spirit is in our lives. It is the special gift Jesus gave to us all after he left this earth. For me it is a strength when I am sad or feeling lost...it is that spark that helps me keep my faith no matter what...it is that idea I get in my head that the Spirit has granted me to see things more clear. I hope that you too will feel that energy in your life as you get older and have more adventures and challenges.

Your grandpa Don was 60 years old when received his Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation all on the same night. Your grandpa decided to become a Catholic and studied for three years so even grandpas have to study to receive the sacraments. It was a very special night for the both of us. He chose to add the Saint name of St Bede when he was confirmed. A really thoughtful and perfect choice for your grandpa because St Bede was from England and was a great writer and historian. And your grandpa loves England, history and books.

We hope that your retreat gives you a chance to have some time to just be with Jesus. We all have busy lives. You have your school work, sports, friends and family that fill your days. But as you are becoming a young man and not a child anymore ...you will need to find some time to spend just with you and God. And even if there will be times when you are too tired or forget or just are not in the mood..keep in mind...God is always there for you...24/7.

We hope you feel a sense of pride as you enter into your faith even deeper and that you have a joyous Confirmation day. Know that you are loved by all of us but most of all by the God who watches over you always.
Love, Nana Judy and Grandpa Don