This morning I am writing from Lamar, where the Confirmation season has begun. Yesterday evening we celebrated the Confirmations of forty-seven brothers and sisters, from the parishes of Holly, Springfield and Lamar. Congratulations to them, their sponsors, teachers and families. It was a joyous occasion of special radiance: the Holy Spirit was present indeed, in beauty, power and glory!
As you read this, you are invited to attend the Confirmation celebrations as they will be held in your local parish, or in the parish centrally chosen for your deanery. In the season of Easter it is a special grace to witness to the appearances of the Risen Christ made manifest in the bestowal of the Holy Spirit on those who have been prepared to receive him!
"As you read this, you are invited to attend the Confirmation celebrations as they will be held in your local parish, or in the parish centrally chosen for your deanery."
Those already baptized into Christ now receive the power of his Spirit and the sign of the cross on their foreheads. They become witnesses to his suffering, death, and resurrection. They receive gifts to build up Christ’s body in unity and love. This privilege is conferred through me, your humble servant, who as bishop has the power of giving the Holy Spirit to the baptized, either personally or through a priest I appoint.
It is my joyous work to celebrate these Confirmations personally, and to share that joy with you inasmuch as it is possible. Together we are, after all, the Body of Christ for which these candidates are being Confirmed to serve. When we support them, we are supporting the mission of Christ. Through the celebration of Confirmation, in the power of the Holy Spirit we are inspired and converted into ever-greater faith and service ourselves. How often is it that we are invited to participate in such a wonderful, life-giving event?
"Through the celebration of Confirmation, in the power of the Holy Spirit we are inspired and converted into ever-greater faith and service ourselves."
The numbers of candidates on the Confirmation trail ahead are promising. Our clergy and teachers have prepared them well. Please keep our candidates in your prayers, as they move forward in their service to Christ. Join us! Space is being reserved for you in the Upper Room. Come one, come all! Come, Holy Spirit, Come!
Sincerely yours in Christ,
+Most Reverend Stephen J. Berg
Bishop of Pueblo
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