The parishes of St Joseph, St Anne and Holy Family and St Patrick’s Ryhope gathered along with members of the Catholic Community in Sunderland for a momentous occasion on the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time on the 7th February, as 37 candidates from local Parishes received the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The event was a Testament to the enduring faith and dedication of the young people, their families and the Parish Community, set against the backdrop of challenging winter weather.
The Holy Mass was celebrated with great joy, with Bishop Stephen presiding as the main celebrant. He was joined at the altar by Father Louis. OCD and Father Ligori. OCD, who have played a vital role in guiding the candidates through their faith journey along with Sisters’ Francis and Josepha from Sunderland’s Oaklea community, Kasia Szczepanska Chaplain to St Aidan’s School, Helen Moran a Religious Education teacher from St Anthony’s and Mrs. Carol Cassidy a Parishioner from St Patrick’s.
The Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time is marked by the Gospel passage in which Jesus calls his followers to be ‘the salt of the earth and the light of the world.’
This powerful message resonated throughout the liturgy, reminding those gathered of their Mission as Christians to bring flavour and illumination to the world, just as the newly confirmed are now called to live their faith boldly and authentically.
The 37 candidates drawn from several Sunderland Parishes, embarked on a dedicated Confirmation course over several weeks. Despite persistent miserable weather conditions they demonstrated remarkable perseverance and commitment by attending sessions regularly.
Their steadfastness is a credit to their character and their desire to grow in faith and they deserve the highest appreciation for not allowing adverse circumstances to dampen their spirits. At the time of the Confirmation Rite, each candidate was presented to Bishop Stephen who Anointed them with the Oil of Sacred Chrism, invoking the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
It was a proud moment for our families and parishioners, Catechists and friends as they witnessed a moving ceremony in which our young parishioners pledged to live out their Baptismal promises with renewed strength and purpose in our modern world.
The Confirmation Mass was not only a celebration for the candidates but also for the parish families of St Joseph’s, St Anne’s and St Patrick’s and the Sunderland community who came together in prayer and support.
Bishop Stephen’s visit became a beacon of hope and renewal, affirming the vibrant faith of Sunderland’s Catholic Community.
A very big thank you and appreciation to everyone who have supported our celebration.
