By Martina Juan
KUCHING — The Confirmation Mass marked the final step for the confirmands receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. Organised by the Sunday School under the Bible and Faith Formation committee, the celebration was held during the 6.00 p.m. Sunset Mass on Saturday, 5 September 2026 at Blessed Sacrament Church.
A total of 58 candidates received the sacrament – 48 from Level 10 English session, seven from Level 10 Chinese session, and three from the Chinese Adult Confirmation class. As both English- and Chinese-session students took part, a student from the English group delivered the first reading in English, while a student from the Chinese group delivered the second reading in Chinese.
Archbishop Simon Poh reminded the confirmation candidates in his homily that they had already received the Holy Spirit through Baptism and had been strengthened throughout their faith journey, including through First Holy Communion and Confirmation. As they enter a more mature stage of life, they will encounter new challenges and temptations. The Holy Spirit gives them the gifts to understand, discern, and remain faithful to God. He also reminded them that Confirmation leaves a permanent spiritual seal: marked with Christ, they belong to Jesus and are called to remain faithful to Him throughout their lives.
The homily also reflected on the Beatitudes, encouraging the candidates to follow Jesus’ teachings, seek God’s blessings, and overcome life’s temptations and uncertainties.
The altar was highlighted as a central place throughout their faith journey – from Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Confirmation to the end of their earthly lives. The candidates were encouraged to return to the Church and maintain a strong relationship with God. Archbishop thanked the parents for helping their children learn and grow in faith and reach this important milestone. He urged parents and children to continue making time for God, prayer, and one another as a family.
The candidates were also reminded that speaking different languages is a blessing they can use to share the Good News of our Lord and serve as witnesses and evangelists in their own way.
Finally, the candidates were encouraged to remain faithful to God, attend Mass regularly, help their families at home, and face life’s uncertainties with faith and courage. Thanks were extended to the parents, teachers, and everyone who had accompanied the children throughout their faith formation.
“Return to Church, stay faithful to God, and make time for Him and your family.”
A group photo of the confirmands with Archbishop Simon Poh and Rev Fr Leonard Yap was taken in front of the altar. The students, their parents, and loved ones then adjourned to the Parish Hall for a potluck dinner celebrating the 58 newly confirmed students. Confirmation certificates were presented after dinner, and the event concluded with several parents and teachers helping to clean the hall.
