Two days ago, when we had the final meeting for the children who would celebrate Confirmation tonight, the casual onlooker might very well have wondered about whether or not this group felt even the least bit of unity or alegiance one for another, but if tonight was any indication, these are some wonderful kids who have indeed managed to gel despite the fact that their age groups are varied, and their school alegiances are even more widespread.
It was almost as though the children we have been working with over the last couple of weeks were left outside the building when they arrived for tonight's celebration. In their place, some truly mature adults came through the doors. These were the children who were nervous only two days ago about how tonight's gathering would unfold, yet to see them support one another was truly a testament in itself. They stood patiently and waited their turns to visit with the Bishop who would smear chrism on their foreheads as he uttered the ancient forumla: Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and then continue in very down-to-earth conversation explaining the meaning of their chosen names and their invitation to be witnesses of faith for our world.
At the end of the liturgy, it was time to relax, even as they came forward one by one to proudly take possession of their certificates and to pose for pictures with the Bishop. A few more pictures with family and friends and it was off to the family parties which were planned for them.
Today they made a major step forward in faith. Beginning tonight, they now continue to walk in faith, witnessing to the faith they have learned by the love they continue to share with those God puts in their paths.
No comments:
Post a Comment