Confirmation 2009

The Sacrament of Confirmation, Sacred Heart Church, and St. Francis, June 7, 2009
By Charlotte Anne Hunkele

The Confirmandi of both the parishes of Sacred Heart, Chariton and St. Francis, Corydon, received the sacrament of Confirmation at 1pm, Sunday, June 7, 2009 at Sacred Heart Church. The minister of the sacrament was Bishop Richard E. Pates assisted by Father Christopher Pisut. There were 24 Confirmandi, and those in attendance numbered over 240 people.

At the beginning of Mass, the Confirmandi entered the Church and took their places during the Opening . Following the reading of the Gospel, Charlotte Hunkele announced their names and each was introduced to the Bishop. Bishop Pates spoke to the Confirmandi addressing important issues concerning the youth, in particular, moral behavior and witnessing the faith. Then, they renewed their Baptismal vows. It is important to realize that, “…the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace…(For) …by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit”(CCC, 1285). The Bishop reminded the Confirmandi that they are called to be, “…true witnesses of Christ…” (CCC, 1285).

The Bishop used the Chrism oil that Sacred Heart received at the Chrism Mass. The Confirmation class attended this Mass, held at St. Ambrose Cathedral, Des Moines. The Bishop mentioned that the Chrism oil was being used in the sacrament.

Everyone wore a stole that had their saint’s name pinned on it and as they came forwarded to receive the sacrament of Confirmation, the name was read aloud. Placing his hands on the Confirmandi, the Bishop said, “Be sealed with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit,” and they responded, “Amen.” Then the Bishop said, “Peace with you,” and the response was, “And, also with you.” After receiving the handshake of the Bishop, they then received one from Father Pisut who was also there to congratulate them before they returned to their seats.

Following the Mass, there was a photo opportunity for the families. Afterwards, they went over to the Parish Center for a reception given by the Women of Sacred Heart. The Parish Center was filled to capacity. Bishop Pates and Father Pisut joined everyone at the reception and visited with the families. This marked the ending of a very memorable day.

Click on this link to see pictures: Confirmation 2009