General News
26 July, 2026
Signing pact with God
THE moment Bishop Joseph Caddy traced the sign of the cross on each young person’s forehead, said their chosen saint’s name and declared, “Be sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit,” 28 local students stepped boldly into the next chapter of their faith journey.
The candidates to receive confirmation at Mother of Good Counsel Catholic Church, Innisfail, were Georgina, Grace, Archie, Marlie, Hunter, Mason, Evie, Sophia, Nora, Chloe, Eli, Frankee, Lily, Spencer, Ellie, Ollie, Delta, Jacob, Nate, Rosalie, Kaiser, Jayleese, Angus, Kynzie, Riley, Cara, Aurora and Lily (surnames withheld).
Bishop Caddy highlighted the power of community in shaping young faith. He said sponsors, saints, families, schools and the church stood as their “protection and guidance” as they grow.
“Life can get messy,” he told them. “But you don’t learn on your own.”
He said the candidates were ready to step up, renew the promises made for them at baptism and welcome the Holy Spirit into their lives with confidence.
The celebration, concelebrated with parish priest Father Kerry Crowley, brought together families, godparents, sponsors and friends, as the candidates publicly renewed the baptismal promises once made on their behalf.
Each responded with a confident: “I do” as they professed their belief in the Holy Spirit.
Bishop Caddy extended his hands over them in the confirmation prayer before individual candidates came forward with their sponsors at their side for the anointing with the sacred oil of Chrism.
As he touched the side of each candidate’s face, he offered the greeting; “Peace be with you” and was met with the reply: “And with your spirit.”
Prayers of the faithful followed, offered for the newly confirmed and for communities everywhere.
The anointing is a powerful sign of the Holy Spirit’s presence and a call for each young person to use their gifts in the life and mission of the church.
Wisdom, understanding, right judgement, courage, knowledge, reverence, wonder and awe are the gifts which provide daily inspiration and direction as they continue to grow in their faith.
Confirmation marks a moment of spiritual maturity.
Having been baptised as infants and raised in the Christian life, these children now make a more personal and deliberate commitment to the gospel.
After the liturgy, candidates received their confirmation certificates from Bishop Caddy before gathering for a group photo and then photos with the bishop, sponsors and family members.
The celebration continued with the cutting and sharing of a special cake to mark the occasion.
In the lead up to the celebration, candidates completed a preparation program designed to deepen their relationship with God, strengthen their understanding of the sacrament and encourage them to live as active members of the parish community.
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