BIS Mumbai
BOSCO INFORMATION SERVICE # 3516
"COME HOLY SPIRIT COME" RECEIVING THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
By: Hilda Alphonso
NORTH ARABIAN VICARIATE, MAY 23, 2013: "Come Holy Spirit, Come" was the chant of one hundred 
thirty four candidates on May 17, 2013 at the St. Therese of the Child Jesus Church, North Arabian Vicariate who were sealed with the "gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit". The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by His Grace Archbishop Petar Rajic, witnessed by the Parish Community.
In preparation for this auspicious day, a few programs were organized for these children and their parents under the guidance of the Parish Priest. Two special orientation sessions (in addition to regular catechism classes) were conducted for these children and their parents titled "Gifts of the Holy Spirit" and "How to live a Christian life."
As well, these children also participated in a half-day retreat conducted by 
Fr. Franco Pereira. "As we journeyed through the spiritual garden of the Retreat, we came to realize that we are now responsible for our faith and for making critical decisions in our lives" said one student.
And finally, Confessions were also arranged for all the children and their parents as they prepared themselves to receive the sacrament of confirmation.
On the day of their Confirmation, all the children were uniformly dressed and waited in great anticipation to receive the Holy Spirit. They were soon anointed with Chrism and with the 
laying of hands followed by the words "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit", they welcomed the Holy Spirit into their lives.
"Now that I have received the Holy Spirit, I feel more firmly bound to Jesus" said one excited child after the Confirmation ceremony. His father was quick to add, "It also means that you must now spread and defend your faith by both word and action." This conversation so aptly summed up the significance of this wonderful sacrament to all those around.
Special thanks go out to all the Catechists for their tireless efforts in preparing our children for this Sacrament. As well, we wish to thank all those who helped with the various arrangements to ensure the Ceremony proceeded efficiently and prayerfully.