Grow in faith like a mustard seed

Jul 05, 2024

IPOH: Forty-four young candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes on June 16. Cardinal Sebastian Francis, the Bishop of Penang, delivered a profound message to the confirmands, emphasising the essential role of the Holy Spirit in their faith journey.

Cardinal Sebastian addressed the candidates, referring to them as “young mustard seeds” and stressed the importance of growth in faith. “We need the Holy Spirit to grow for the Church and move forward where the Spirit is leading us,” he said. He highlighted that without the Holy Spirit, spiritual growth is impossible. “From now onwards, confirmands need the Holy Spirit to grow, like a mustard seed.”

The cardinal underscored the responsibility the confirmands were taking on, stating, “Today, you are to take responsibility for your faith in life. The Holy Spirit is given to you sacramentally as you receive Confirmation.” His message resonated deeply as the young candidates prepared to affirm their faith, initially received at baptism, within the wider Church community.

Cardinal Sebastian was the main celebrant of the Mass, concelebrating was Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam, parish priest Fr Robert Daniel, assistant parish priest Fr George Vaithynathan, and Deacon Sandnasamy Peter.

During the Rite of Confirmation, each of the 44 candidates was anointed with the oil of Chrism by Cardinal Sebastian, who pronounced, “Receive the Holy Spirit, the gift of the Father. Peace be with you.” Each confirmand then received a special blessing from Archbishop Emeritus Murphy, who was seated nearby.

The ceremony concluded with a thanksgiving testimony by Ashley, one of the confirmands representing all 44 candidates. Fr Robert expressed gratitude to the catechists and congratulated the confirmands. Fr George later distributed certificates to the new confirmand.