The Catechism of the Catholic Church states:[2]
Recall then that you have received the spiritual seal, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of right judgment and courage, the spirit of knowledge and reverence, the Spirit of holy fear in God's presence. Guard what you have received. God our Father has marked you with his sign; Christ the Lord has confirmed you and has placed his pledge, the Spirit, in your heart.[3]
It was a cold and snowy Saturday in February. In my mind, I had more envisioned a balmy spring day in May, tulips blooming, the scent of hyacinths in the air. Funny how God's plans can sometimes leave us dumfounded and skeptical.
My daughter Katie, now 15 years old, is ready to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Watching her prepare for this over the years has left me in awe of the spirit of this young Christian lady. Not so long ago, perhaps a month or two, she attended a confirmation retreat in our diocese. While watching a video depicting the lives of the sisters of various convents she openly wept and took to heart the plight of these servants of God. I spoke to her CCD teacher about this and his comment to me was, "Yes, she weeps a lot." Her genuine love of and dedication to her religion is so inspiring in our modern day world.
There were a number of complications and barriers to this years Confirmation. The weather being first and foremost. But also, we recently lost our Bishop unexpectedly and have not yet received a new one. Katie's CCD teacher was unable to attend her Confirmation due to scheduling conflicts and there were several scheduling errors and omissions.
However, as I accompanied my priest into Holy Trinity Catholic Church and sat down to gaze upon my daughter in the processional with the Bishop of Philadelphia I couldn't help but shed a tear at the sheer beauty of the moment. The smell of the incense, the words of the Gospel, the presence of family and friends, the receipt of the Holy Spirit. I don't think I have ever been so moved or felt so blessed.
Katie chose Clare as her confirmation name for reasons that she can articulate beautifully. Here is a woman that didn't have to do any of the difficult and challenging things that she did but did them because she wanted to. Because she wanted to serve her God.
I am certain that Katie will continue to serve her God for her entire life, not because she feels she has to, but simply because she wants to. It is who she is. It is how she lives. It is why I am so proud to call her my daughter!
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| From 1st Communion to Confirmation |
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