Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Honiara (Fides Service) - Every young person is called to encounter Jesus in prayer and follow him in service of others, Archbishop Adrian Smith of Honiara said in his homily before he conferred the sacrament of Confirmation on 70 young islanders in Christ the King Parish a Tetere.
During the Mass Archbishop Smith explained the close connection between all the sacraments and the importance of frequent reception of the sacraments of the Eucharist and Reconciliation. His constant reminder to the people in recent years has been to keep away from addictions - alcohol, marijuana and adultery. “God does not punish us. Our sickness and ill-health is the result of what we engage in today”, he stated. “It is in fulfilling our Christian vocation that we follow God’s call in our lives”, he continued. A shared meal and entertainment followed the celebration of the Eucharist.
During meetings in preparation for Confirmation the young people agreed that corruption materialism, abuse, dishonesty, can undermine the human and spiritual growth of all or spread a conviction that egoism is the only possible path today. “Faith in Christ is the antidote for these evils ”, they said. They discussed the problem and the destructive effects of abuse of drugs and alcohol and committed themselves to build a more healthy society with positive values and to share an experience of brotherhood, friendship, prayer :and adoration of the Eucharist
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 25/11/2005 Righe: 27 Parole: 281)
