by Father Francis Fernandes
PUNE, JUNE 29, 2015: Parishoners of Sacred Heart church, Yerwada had a double celebration on offer as 48 youth were conferred with the Sacrament of Confirmation, a day before the parish celebrated its annual 
feast on June 28.
Bishop Thomas Dabre of Pune, conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on the youth and stressed the importance of nourishing the soul, as much as the body.
Following the special mass, he was felicitated to mark the occasion of his Silver Jubilee of Episcopal Ordination.
He thanked Father Anton D'souza, the Parish Priest, for preparing the youth to receive the Sacrament and felicitating him.
Confirmation is a sacrament instituted by Jesus Christ and is different from Baptism. It is administered by laying-on of hands and anointing with chrism accompanied by prayer.
The chrism is blessed by the bishop and the bishop administers the sacrament.
As part of the celebration to mark the feast, Father Benjamin Alphonso, the Rector of the Capuchins in Pune- who celebrated the Festive Eucharist- stressed on the importance on nurturing our 'common home' -- the earth.
Father D'souza also used the occasion to welcome Father Bosco D'mello, Father Cletus D'souza and Father Francis Fernandes, who have joined the parish. Students who secured 70 percent and above in the standard 10 and 12 exams were felicitated for their efforts.