Moved by the Holy Spirit, Celebrating Love and Fidelity and Lent Commences

Come, Holy Spirit

This past Thursday, I conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on 26 adult candidates in the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption. The candidates came from 18 parishes across our Diocese. During my homily, I shared that this Sacrament cements our relationship with God and strengthens us for the lifelong journey of faith. It was moving to witness how deeply the Holy Spirit touched each confirmand, affirming that this Sacrament is a true and holy encounter with God.

I encouraged the confirmandi to recognize that their lives should be different from that moment forward. Each individual receives the Holy Spirit in a unique way, but this group did so with open hearts, ready to receive this divine gift.

As I anointed them, I witnessed the transformative power of the Sacrament. Some were moved to tears—tears of joy, of gratitude, of a profound realization that God was at work within them. It was a reminder to all of us that when we surrender to God, He responds.

May those confirmed last Thursday, and all of us, continue to be guided and strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

Celebrating Milestone Wedding Anniversaries

After a brief delay due to inclement weather in February, the Annual Wedding Anniversary Mass took place this past Sunday at the Cathedral. Couples and their families from throughout the Diocese gathered to give witness to and celebrate enduring commitments of love and fidelity for one another and family.

Renewal of Marriage Vows

All married couples were invited to renew their vows by sharing:

I reaffirm my marriage vows and rededicate myself in the same spirit that I pronounced when I took you for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health until death.

In my homily, I emphasized the power of relationships and the wisdom gained through life’s challenges. Reflecting on the secrets to a long and happy marriage, strong relationships—with family, friends, and God—are essential for a fulfilling life. The reading from the Book of Sirach was a reminder that challenges are opportunities for growth, strengthening both individuals and marriages making them more resilient and meaningful.

“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return”

Today, we begin our 40-day Lenten journey with Ash Wednesday, a solemn day of fasting and abstinence from meat. Lent is a sacred time for prayer, reflection, and sacrifice—an opportunity to deepen our relationship with Christ.

Many choose to give up something they enjoy, such as sweets, as a small act of sacrifice. Others take on additional spiritual practices or acts of charity. While abstaining from a favorite treat can be a meaningful challenge, Lent also invites us to extend our sacrifice to serve those in need. Consider volunteering at a soup kitchen, assisting at a homeless shelter, or finding other ways to offer some hope to those struggling.

Lent is not only about sharing in Christ’s sacrifice. It is also performing the work of Christ here on Earth. As we journey through these 40 days, may we open our hearts – just like the adults who were confirmed last week – to both sacrifice and service, bringing Christ’s love and mercy to those who need it most.

What sacrifice of enjoyment or service to those in need will you commit to during Lent this year? 

A Blessed Lent to all of you.

Sincerely,

+Bishop da Cunha