click to enlarge image

After rigorous preparation and testing, 50 young Catholics received the sacrament of Confirmation. When asked about the preparation, one of the confirmandi stated this, “There was a rehearsal following a written test and an oral test. The written part was based on the Confirmation catechism. The oral part tested the knowledge of our prayers and articles of the Faith. We were also quizzed on our patron saints.” This particular candidate chose the name Rocco, taken after the saint who is the patron of contagious diseases.

And why was the traditional rite used? The traditional Latin Mass is the only rite that has ever been used at Immaculate Heart of Mary Chapel. And why is it the only rite that has ever been used there? Well, that’s for another story…

The chapel is like a hidden gem found at Saint Benedict Center in Still River, Massachusetts. Upon arrival, there is no doubt that you have entered into the House of God. His Presence is unquestionable in the tabernacle which is placed directly in the center of the sanctuary, where it should be. Holy water fonts flank the entrance like two sentinels offering their powerful contents. Your eyes will have their fill of holy paintings, stained glass and beautiful statues. The tremendous devotion to the Blessed Mother is evident. Vigil candles flicker steadily, representing the petitions that have been requested. The altar rises loftily carrying our eyes, our hearts, our minds, and most importantly, our souls in the direction of Heaven. The Latin Tridentine rite is a perfect fit here. It is the only fit, and yet it fits all. It transcends time, location, and language barriers. It’s universal.

What makes this Confirmation unique is that because it was conferred according to the traditional rite, it ranks among the very few that have been done that way since the radical changes following the Second Vatican Council. However, with the recent promulgation of Summorum Pontificum, perhaps we will be seeing more of this.

click to enlarge image

In his impelling address to the confirmandi, Bishop McManus began by recalling the effects of Baptism. He pointed out that we are not baptized in isolation, but we are joined to the Christian community as children of God in union with the communion of saints. Through Baptism, as original sin is washed away from our souls we die to sin and the things of the world. By the sacrament of Confirmation we are fortified with the gifts of the Holy Ghost and he exhorted the confirmandi to use those gifts. He instructed them to pray, receive the sacraments, and perform good works. Do these things he said so that one day our Lord will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”
In a parallel talk to the sponsors he indicated to them the theological reason for their roles. He stressed the importance of their prayers and he specified that their good examples are essential for those they sponsored.

Brother Thomas Augustine M.I.C.M. is the superior of the Slaves of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, the religious community at Saint Benedict Center. Here’s what he had to say about this momentous event, “We are very grateful to the Bishop for his pastoral response in coming to Still River to confirm our candidates according to the Traditional Rite. I believe these young men and women will strengthen the Church in the Diocese of Worcester by a strong and militant faith."