The Avarua St Joseph’s Cathedral and Matavera Sacred Heart Parish gathered together on Sunday to celebrate in the spiritual journey of Catholic students as they received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

This sacrament is a profound moment in their lives observing their deepened commitment to their faith and their active participation in the life of the church.

A special procession led by Bishop Reynaldo Getalado started from Nukutere College to the Cathedral for the Sacrament of Confirmation and the Solemnity of Christ the King.

After 12 weeks of religious studies, siblings Bob Nicholas Paiti (17) and Daveina Keziah Paiti (15) were both “happy” to celebrate their confirmation day with friends and family.

“I wanted to learn more about God and be closer to him and this has really helped me to accomplish that … I’m very happy that I’ve accomplished this goal,” said Bob.

His sister Daveina said, “I felt great, this is part of my religion and I wanted to become stronger in my faith.”

Nukutere College head of religious studies, Iokimi Narovu, led the Avarua parish students in their preparation classes and testified that they were ready.

“These candidates have prepared for Confirmation by participating in the sacrament life of the Church, by meditating on the Word of God, by attending faith formation classes and by demonstrating Christian service,” said Narovu.

“They have found strength in God’s grace and support in our community’s prayer and example.”

He said the main challenge was having to balance the NCEA academic school studies with the confirmation classes.

On the day they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, the students receive the seven gifts of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and awe/fear of the Lord.

“We are preparing the youth to go out in the world and carry out the mission of the church,” Narovu added.

Father Freddy Kaina tutored the three Matavera parish students in preparation for their confirmation day.

The Avarua St Joseph’s Cathedral confirmation students were: Elizabeth Genevieve Akava – Akaruru, Noovao Matthew Blake, Tailei Christina Blake, Tihani Theresa Christiana Dean, Joseph Benedict George, Reiwynn Rose George, John Tui-Tonga Athanasius Gibson, Etukura Francis Kirikava, Tuaanaore Augustine Mitchell, Leu Monica Leata Moemai, Bob Nicholas Paiti, Daveina Keziah Paiti, Olivia Jadwiga (Yadveega) Postrzygacz, Joseph Gabriel Tangaroa, Heimatahitiapi Mary Teaukura, Tania Agnes Teinaki, Pauleen Raphael Janna P Tumbaga, Junior Nicholas Owen Van Eijk.

The Matavera Sacred Heart Parish confirmation students were: Jade Joseph Cowan, Siaosi Anthony Cowan and Dan Nicholas Yasfer C. Peñahermoso.

Terrisa Catherine Moana Piri was confirmed on Saturday because of her NCEA exams, and Danielle Therese Eunice A. Pinero, who is currently in the Philippines, will have her Sacrament of Confirmation on Sunday, December 20, 2024.