St. Joseph Cathedral hosts confirmation for dozens of candidates

While many parishes throughout the Diocese of Buffalo play host to Confirmation Masses each year, St. Joseph Cathedral also opens its doors to provide the sacrament. Dozens of young men and women, and a handful of older candidates, received the Gift of the Holy Spirit during two Masses of Confirmation held Sunday, May 19 inside the cathedral.

Bishop Michael W. Fisher opened the latter Mass by noting this event was falling on Pentecost Sunday, the day when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles following Jesus Christ’s return to heaven. It’s also the occasion marking the birthday of the Church.

“Here we are celebrating like those apostles. Today, our brothers and sisters are going to complete their initiation into the church,” said the bishop during his homily. “And as they come together, imagine, all of you are from different parts of our diocese. You too, who have come to be healed in your relationship with the Lord. I’ve read some of your letters that you sent me, about why you want to be confirmed. Because you want to continue to deepen your relationship with the Lord, to heal that relationship with the Lord. That’s why Jesus came. And then also, we’re called on mission. Now as church, we’re called to go out and spread the Good News.”

Nearly 90 candidates from 16 parishes received the sacrament during the 3 p.m. Mass. Earlier in the day, an estimated 45 people received the Gift of the Holy Spirit during the 10:30 a.m. Mass.