GROW IN FAITH 30 – Confirmation

Strengthened by the Holy Spirit

Opening Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit,
fill our hearts.
Strengthen us in faith.
Help us live courageously
as followers of Christ.
Amen.

Part One

The Promise of the Spirit

Before Jesus returned to the Father,
He made a promise.

He said:

“You shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost
coming upon you,
and you shall be witnesses unto me.”

The Apostles were afraid after Jesus’ death.

But when the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost,
they were changed.

They became bold.
They preached openly.
They were no longer afraid.

The same Holy Spirit
is given to us in Confirmation.

Scripture

“You shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost
coming upon you.”
(Acts 1:8)

Think and Discuss

Who is the Holy Spirit?

Why did the Apostles need courage?

What does it mean to be a “witness”?

How might the Holy Spirit help us today?

Allow thoughtful answers.

Part Two

What Happens in Confirmation

Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism.

In this sacrament:

The bishop (or priest) lays hands on the person.
He anoints the forehead with holy chrism.
He says:

“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”

The word “sealed” is important.

A seal shows belonging.

In Confirmation,
the Holy Spirit strengthens the soul
with a special grace.

Like Baptism,
Confirmation leaves a spiritual mark
that can never be erased.

It is received only once.

This sacrament strengthens us:

To defend the faith.
To live faithfully.
To speak about Christ when needed.

Those who have already been confirmed
are called to live boldly.

Those preparing
are preparing for a gift of strength.

Guidance for Adults

Avoid presenting Confirmation as graduation or a reward.
It is strengthening grace, not completion of faith.

Part Three

Living With Courage

The Holy Spirit gives gifts.

Wisdom.
Understanding.
Counsel.
Fortitude.
Knowledge.
Piety.
Fear of the Lord.

These gifts help us grow.

They help us:

Choose what is right.
Resist temptation.
Pray deeply.
Serve generously.

Confirmation is not about becoming perfect.

It is about becoming stronger.

The Spirit helps us when:

Faith feels difficult.
We are afraid to stand out.
We are tempted to stay silent.

The Christian life requires courage.

The Holy Spirit gives that courage.

Whether we are already confirmed
or still preparing,
we can ask daily:

“Come, Holy Spirit.”

Quiet Reflection

Sit quietly for a moment.

Think of a situation where it is hard to stand up for what is right.

Now say quietly:

“Holy Spirit, give me courage.”

Remain in silence together.

Practise This Week

Choose one:

• Pray “Come, Holy Spirit” each morning.
• Ask the Spirit for help before making a difficult choice.
• Learn one gift of the Holy Spirit.
• Do one brave act of kindness.

Choose one and keep it steady.

Optional Response

Choose one:

Memory
Repeat slowly:
“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
Say it three times thoughtfully.

Action
Trace a small Sign of the Cross on your forehead and say:
“Strengthen me, Lord.”

Closing Prayer

Holy Spirit,
Strengthen us.
Guide us.
Help us live as faithful witnesses of Christ.
Keep us courageous and steady in faith.
Amen.