By Fr. Glenn Jones:

It’s been quite the media spectacle for the last couple of weeks—Pope Leo and President Trump at odds about the Iran conflict, though the Pope was somewhat circumspect about referring to the conflict directly. Then, of course, the debates about what constitutes a “just war” and who determines such, with even bishops emphasizing different aspects and “sides”.

To those unfamiliar with the Church, it might seem there are fractures in its unity. But it only seems so. Debate has been the norm within the Church since the beginning, as it hammers out what is right and wrong, true and false. Even the apostles debated and did not always agree. But what gives us comfort is Jesus’ promises to the Church when, speaking to the apostles, the first bishops, He assures them: “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13), and “I am with you always, to the close of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)

A common debate among Christians is the existence and theology of sacraments—shortly defined as “physical actions instituted by Christ to give grace.” One that is least understood among non-Catholics is Confirmation—imparting the Holy Spirit by the laying on of hands. Its Biblical basis is in Acts of the Apostles: “…when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for it had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit” (Acts 8:14-17) and similarly, “… they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them …” (15:5-6)

In this time after Easter, Catholic bishops and priests they delegate are going about confirming young people who have been preparing by religious education for years. As one privileged to be delegated to this task, I thought I’d share part of my homily to them at Confirmation Masses to perhaps help readers with a greater understanding of the sacrament:

We gather for the Confirmation of our young candidates and to affirm them in their faith … to receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit for a greater maturity of spirit. Confirmation is called a milestone of faith, but a milestone is a significant marker on a road, not the end of the journey. Confirmation is really a beginning … a type of promotion from spiritual childhood to spiritual adulthood, with all its attendant responsibilities.

So, will you shelve what you’ve been taught and succumb to the popular way of the world, or will you be strong enough to continue the mission of being the true disciples of Christ you’re called to be?

In a few moments, I’ll trace a cross on your forehead with Chrism oil and say, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” But think about a “seal” on a diploma or professional license. It doesn’t mean the end, but rather a beginning—to go out into the world for work and for your career. And this seal means you belong to Christ and are trusted with the mission that He gives His disciples—to live and spread the Gospel.

Most of you were baptized as babies, but today the Church is asking—God is asking: “Do you accept the challenge presented to you?” Because in this sacrament God plants power to be true to who God created you to be.

To assist you, you are receiving seven gifts in this sacrament … spiritual helps for a difficult world which challenges faith:

Wisdom & Understanding: To see through error in the world and social media and discern what’s real.

Counsel & Fortitude: To know what’s right when your friends are doing what’s wrong, and the courage to stand alone when you have to.

Knowledge & Piety: To know God as a Father, and to speak to Him like a friend and loving parent.

Fear of the Lord: Not being “scared” of God but being so in awe of His love that you’d settle for nothing less than being your best for Him.

The world tells you to “Find your truth.” But the Holy Spirit helps you find THE Truth. One is smoke blowing with the wind; the other a foundation to build your future life and eternal salvation upon.

And when questioning or struggling, look to your sponsor; they are a help for you in this quest for holiness. Look to the saint whose name you chose [for your confirmation name], and other saints you read about. They aren’t just historical figures; they are our examples already in heaven. For the saints already ran this race and won the crown of life and are a great crowd of witnesses cheering you on. The saints were rebels against the status quo of a selfish world.

So many are grasping for meaning in this life; your faith can lead the way for others who may be wandering in darkness. For Jesus said, “You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14) You help others see goodness, strength and courage in you as you reflect Christ’s light.

Now, some will tell you that science disproves God. But as pastor in Los Alamos for years, at Mass were hundreds of the best scientists and engineers from around the world who worked at the national lab.

Some claim faith is weakness. But we see strong faith in generals, colonels, grizzled old sergeants major, scarred combat vets … some of the toughest and smartest men and women I’ve ever known.

Think you’re too cool for faith? Well, some who live their faith are celebrities such as Mark Wahlberg, Mel Gibson, Cristiano Ronaldo, Simone Biles, Caitlin Clark, Katie Ladecky, Sylvester Stallone, Jim Caviezel.

Today the Church needs your youthful energy, your tech-savviness, your passion for justice, your unique voice, your willingness to seek righteousness. Because the world is rather dark—full of anxiety, loneliness, and division. You are being called to be the “light-bearers.” You aren’t the Church of the future; you are the Church of now.

Today Jesus calls you anew. So, ask yourself: How can I live out this great gift? How can I bring Christ to others? For, as St. Paul wrote: “In him you also, who have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and have believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance …” (1 Eph 13f)

So, when asked why our faith in Christ, we answer much like St. Peter: “… to whom shall we go? He has the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that He is the Holy One of God.” (Joh 6:61-68 RSV)

You are being sealed tonight with the Holy Spirit. So, like the apostles, be bold. Be saints.

Editor’s note: Rev. Glenn Jones is the Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Santa Fe and former pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Los Alamos.