Confirmation 2010

In a glorious ceremony, the Most Reverend Robert J. McManus, Ordinary of the Worcester diocese, administered the Traditional Rite of Confirmation to 36 candidates in Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel on June 19th. The awesome sight of the Bishop processing in with his mitre and crosier was enhanced by the beautiful altar flowers and a sanctuary of priests, including Msgr. Johnson the MC of the diocese, altar boys and acolytes. The chapel was filled to capacity with family members of the students who enjoyed the beautiful ancient hymns of the Church sung by the choir of Brothers and Sisters.

You could hear a pin drop as the Bishop addressed the confirmandi and the congregation about the importance of the Sacrament about to be conferred. Then each candidate knelt before the Bishop in the Sanctuary and as he anointed them, he called them each by their new name in Latin making them “soldiers of Christ.”

Following the conferring of the Sacrament, the Bishop again addressed the assembly, especially reminding the sponsors of their serious obligation to look after their spiritual children by providing guidance and good example. The entire congregation then recited the Apostles Creed and received the Bishop’s blessing.

The ceremony concluded with the traditional form of Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in Latin along with the Divine Praises.

Afterwards His Excellency greeted the confirmandi outside the Chapel where a group photo was taken at the shrine of Our Lady in front of the school. The day was perfect in every way, even the weather!

The Community was honored to have the Bishop and Msgr. Johnson join them for lunch in the monastery refectory following the ceremony. It was truly a day of blessings!

Check out the Confirmation at IHM Slideshow!