Strengthened by the Spirit: 54 Youth Receive Confirmation at Most Holy Redeemer Church Derebail Back

Strengthened by the Spirit: 54 Youth Receive Confirmation at Most Holy Redeemer Church Derebail

The Sacrament of Confirmation is a sacred milestone in the life of a Christian, through which the baptized are strengthened by the gift of the Holy Spirit. It deepens their bond with the Church and empowers them to live out their faith courageously as mature witnesses of Christ. Through the anointing and the laying on of hands by the Bishop, the candidates are sealed with the Holy Spirit, receiving grace to grow in faith and be of service to the Church and society.

Derebail Parish was blessed with a moment of profound spiritual joy as Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza, the former Bishop of Mangalore, graciously visited the parish on Wednesday, 14th January 2026, to administer the Sacrament of Confirmation during a solemn Holy Eucharist celebrated at 5:00 p.m.
A total of 54 candidates, comprising 26 boys and 28 girls, reverently received the Sacrament, marking an important milestone in their faith journey. The Eucharistic celebration commenced with a graceful processional entrance led by the confirmation candidates along with the Godparents, Mr. Denzil Fernandes and Mrs. Clotilda D’Souza, followed by the altar servers, the parish priests, Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis and Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris, and the Bishop, creating an atmosphere of prayerfulness and devotion.

In his inspiring homily, the Bishop shared a meaningful anecdote highlighting the ever-abiding presence of Jesus in our daily lives. He further encouraged the young confirmands by citing the lives of young saints, urging them to remain steadfast in faith, courage, and Christian values. His words left a deep impression on the congregation, especially the young candidates.
The Bishop then individually administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to all 54 youngsters. The candidates responded confidently and prayerfully while receiving the Sacrament, earning words of appreciation from the Bishop for their preparedness and reverence.

Towards the conclusion of the Holy Mass, Ms. Minal Lobo proposed the vote of thanks. The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Bishop and the parents of the confirmands. He extended special thanks to Rev. Fr. Steevan Nelson Peris, Sr. Maria Aranha, and Mr. Jeswin Castelino for their dedicated efforts and keen interest in conducting catechism classes for the confirmation students.
The Bishop warmly commended the committed efforts of the parish priest, assistant priest, catechism teachers, and all lay leaders for their selfless service and unwavering support in parish life and activities.

The celebration concluded on a note of gratitude and joy, leaving the confirmands spiritually strengthened and the parish community deeply enriched by this grace filled occasion.

Report by: Adleen Sequeira 
Pictures: Roshan Fernandes