On Pentecost Sunday, children all over the Portland area celebrated the Rite of Confirmation. After ongoing preparation with Chatechists and parents, the children were able to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and 1st Eucharist during the mass. They processed along with the altar servers and clergy, up the Church aisles. In receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation they can begin to develop their faith and spirituality within Catholic Tradition. It is about strengthening what God has given, and continues to give, to his sons and daughters (cf. CCC 1302-1303) 

Seeing their enthusiasm and joy in beginning their journey within the Catholic Church, brings hope to the parish. The children dressed in their "Sunday Best", walked up toward the altar and was given the blessing by Fr. Seamus Griesbach, assisted by Fr. Kevin Upham, and Fr. Agustin Sebasthiyan. 
 

After the blessing they were finally able to recieve their 1st Eucharist. The children were able to line up before the rest of the congregation and recieve the Body of Christ, for the first time.
  
It is in this receiving of the Eucharist, that they are able to fully participate in the life of the Catholic Church. Thank you everyone involved for taking the time to give these children something they will remember and can take with them as they grow in the faith.