Confirmation Retreat

I had the privilege of engaging with the Confirmation candidates this week. I found them to be a very intelligent and mature group of young people. They were open to deep discussion and new ideas and made some profound connections in the matters of faith and their world. I felt enriched from this experience and I hope they did too.

We explored mindfulness and how it can enrich their prayer experience and life in general. Mindfulness in its essence means ‘being present in the moment’. How often, for instance, do we say the Sign of the Cross and not actually take in the words we are saying? Mindfulness is the opposite of being in auto-pilot and allows us to be more aware and tuned in to the present moment. How much better does a Tim Tam taste when you are present to the sensation and flavours? How much more enjoyment is had when you are listening intently to how the instruments contribute to the rhythm and melody of a song? And how much better is your relationship with a friend when you listen deeply within a conversation?

We explored art forms and how humans have found this to be a great expression of faith and an inspiration for others – art forms that are inspired by God that include visual art, movies and music and of course writing e.g. the bible! 

Sister Julie imparted her wisdom and spoke to the candidates about the Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit will play a big part of their lives as long as they are able to accept and use the gifts that He brings. The students saw that the gift of ‘courage’ is particularly needed during this time of a world pandemic. This insight came from them and showed how deeply they thought about the connection between faith and living in today’s world.

Thanks to Father Denis for providing Reconciliation for the candidates and to Sister Julie for sharing her gift of knowledge. Thank you to Sarah Naughton and Nathan Carey for taking the time away from their classrooms and supporting this special day and for what they brought to the discussion too. Thanks to Nicola Saunders for organising the pizza lunch (a special treat for a special day!) And most of all, thanks to the candidates for their participation and response to the immersions.

The Confirmation Retreat is only a small part of the candidates’ preparation but it was something I appreciated immensely. Holy Spirit is finding a home in these young people!

.