This past Sunday, the Parish Hall at Sacred Heart Parish became a sanctuary of spiritual rejuvenation as the Candidates for Confirmation gathered for a profound spiritual retreat on the Sacrament of Confirmation. The event, served as a beacon of faith, unity, and personal growth.

The retreat’s sessions provided attendees the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the Sacrament of Confirmation, renewing their commitment to their faith and the teachings of the Church.

Dr. Matthew Murray led the retreat. His insightful speech and heartfelt testimonies resonated deeply with the attendees, evoking a sense of joy and laughter. Dr. Matthew did great connecting with the young candidates on a personal level and left an indelible mark on everyone present; fostering a real desire to grow in their Faith and to become true Intentional Disciples of Christ.

One of the most memorable moments was the illustration that Dr. Matthew Murray used during one of the sessions: Dr. Matt Murray led them through an exercise using a clear vessel filled with milk. He asked them to imagine themselves as a glass of milk. Each time they receive a sacrament, a little chocolate syrup goes into the glass: that’s Grace. When that Grace gets stirred up in their lives, they become different. They become chocolate milk. They become holy.

When we are children, our parents agree to take on the job of stirring up the chocolate (grace). But, when we are confirmed, it becomes our responsibility to keep the grace in our lives “stirred up.” If we don’t, the chocolate will separate from the milk and settle to the bottom of the glass.

As the retreat came to a close, attendees left with hearts full of gratitude and spirits lifted; carrying with them the sincere desire to be Disciples of Christ and ready to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation on March 12, 2025 at 6: 00 p.m.

In the words of one participant, “This retreat has been a life-changing experience. It has deepened my understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation and brought me closer to my faith and my community. I am leaving here with a renewed spirit and a heart full of gratitude. Dr. Matthew Murray did a fantastic job; was very funny and very informative.”

Thank you to Dr. Matthew Murray for your dedication to help the young people of our parish in their faith journey. On behalf of Sacred Heart Parishioners and the Candidates of Confirmation thank you for sharing your time, your talents and your faith with us. “My God, I believe, I adore, I hope and I love you! I ask pardon for those who do not believe, do not adore, do not hope and do not love you! Amen.