By Zoe Cannon
Gratitude for the Gift of Faith
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
The power of the Holy Spirit is a gift to help us know God and accept the mystery of salvation. Our Church history is complete with Sacred Scripture, church teaching and tradition, a threefold guide to help build up the Kingdom of God.
The infusion of grace from the Holy Spirit is an indelible mark of love for each soul. Grace freely given from God is an unconditional offering of goodwill to humankind. Life in the Holy Spirit is essential to our salvation, and to blaspheme the Holy Spirit of God is an unforgivable sin. “Therefore, I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven people, but the blasphemy of the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven” (Matthew 12:31).Hardened opposition to the truth of the Holy Spirit leads man away from repentance and therefore, without forgiveness.
The Pharisees in the Temple accused Jesus of performing miracles as a power of something demonic rather than divine. In our baptismal promises, we reject Satan and all his evil works. This first infusion of grace wipes out original sin and strengthens our resolve to live our baptismal promises.
The Sacraments of Initiation in the Catholic Church are baptism, confirmation and the Eucharist — our rebirth, strength and nourishment. They are the foundation of our Christian life, uniting us to Christ and His Church. The announcement to transition to age 10 for the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Diocese of Evansville is a blessing. I was 10 years old when I was confirmed, and I was told power from the Holy Spirit was coming into my life. It was another mystery, but my grandmother helped me understand this was grace to prepare for heaven.
I have been a confirmation sponsor for teens several times over the years. The time in preparation met the needs of this age group, but the interest waned as their peers and worldly impressions seemed more important than the Holy Spirit in their lives.
The making of disciples begins at home with family members, the parents, grandparents and Godparents. I believe being intentional with younger children about the topic of grace and a close relationship with Jesus bears great fruit. Their hearts are open to truth and a willingness to call upon Jesus in times of need. The infusion of grace … sealed with the Holy Spirit empowers all those confirmed … the younger the better. I believe this because I trust in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Old Testament prophets announced the Spirit of the Lord would rest on the saving mission of a Messiah. This Messiah, the Son of God, was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and the descent of the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ baptism was a witness for us. The entire mission of Jesus was carried out in communion with the Holy Spirit but was not meant to remain uniquely the Messiah’s gift.
There is something radical occurring in our culture. The age of innocence has changed. Why not empower children to be virtuous at an earlier age? The grace of God will help them understand the preciousness of every soul made in the image of God, especially their own. Protect children and the Sacred Mysteries. Amen!
Zoe Cannon lives in Morgantown, Indiana, and is a member of Sts. Francis and Clare Parish in Greenwood, Indiana.