When’s the last time you were present for a powerful celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation in our Catholic Church? On May 6, 2012, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity witnessed Diocese of Columbus, OH, Bishop Frederick Campbell lay hands on 12 confirmands from St. Monica Parish, New Boston, OH and St. Peter in Chains Parish, Wheelersburg, OH in New Boston.
Why was this so convincingly moving? Given the 
numbers, having a symbolic ’12’ meant something to the candidates. Pastor Father Joseph Yokum had invited our Vocation Team to arrive on Friday before the big day so we could lead 9 of the candidates in a retreat focusing on the symbols of water, fire, oil and laying on of hands. It was clear early on that the youth had truly formed community among each other even though they attended 3 different schools and 2 different parishes. Conversation was most revealing. They were very aware of each other’s needs, but even admitted that their growth in being brothers and sisters to each other came through showing up, and listening to each other. They talked about the first days of class with their catechist, Ruth (Boll), and just sitting with closed arms as they said not a word, but listened nonetheless.
True apostolic zeal was present not only in sense of community felt among the candidates, but in this ability to answer with Bishop Campbell’s coaching some pertinent questions.
Click here to find out those questions.
