This Sunday our high school youth who are preparing for the sacrament of Confirmation will be having an all-day retreat in the parish hall. I think it’s appropriate to pause our journey through the Mass to talk about this sacrament. Unfortunately in our Catholic culture, Confirmation is often viewed as a type of “graduation” from CCD, Religious Ed, or Faith Formation. Therefore it is looked upon as a rite of passage, a passing from the regular obligation of classroom education to the adult world that falsely assumes that this formation is now complete and can be left behind. I get it. Being one who has never been fond of the classroom, I can empathize with desire to move on. I would also criticize the exaggerated faith our culture has in education’s ability to form disciples. Education is extremely valuable. None of us want the doctor examining us, the pilot flying us or the plumber fixing our water pipes not to know what they are doing. Education has facilitated tremendous advancements in health, comfort, transportation, and communication. Proclaiming the Gospel is an act of education. However it is not the end. Knowing about the Gospel is not the same as “knowing and living” the Gospel. Our Gospel instruction should lead to the ongoing conversion of our eternal soul and the manner in which we live out our life. It should produce in our hearts a growing, humble faith that longs for the closeness of God’s love and truth, which illumines the path before us. The sacraments are God’s gifts to His children. Confirmation is not a graduation but a commissioning. This sacrament is a strengthening and empowerment provided by the Holy Spirit. Instruction will shine a light upon this wonderful gift, but only humble faith will activate it in the life of the individual Christian. So please pray today for our candidates and also prayerfully consider your own faith life. Are you intentionally living out a Spirit filled, powered, and guided life? No? Just ask Him! Yours in Christ, Fr. Sid.