Anointed in the Spirit Candidate Handbook - Saint Mary's Press

Zacchaeus to respond to Jesus’ call, and because he did, his encounterwith Jesus transformed his life.When God calls each of us, it is personal. He wants us to respond,and he gives us the grace that enables us to do so.Standing before the BishopSo there you’ll be, called by name and standing before the bishop.The bishop is the minister of Confirmation. (We’ll talk more abouthim in chapter 6.)After you’ve been called, the bishop will give the homily, duringwhich he’ll explain the Scripture readings and talk about the meaningof Confirmation.After the homily, the bishop will ask you some questions, butthat’s for the next chapter. For now let’s concentrate on what it meansto be a candidate.Being a CandidateA candidate is a person preparing for an important role, responsibility,office, or position. You’ve been called by God to be a candidateand prepare for Confirmation. It’s a significant moment in yourlife, and you’ll want to take it seriously. But don’t be overwhelmedby what you are being asked to do. Accept and enjoy all the specialsupport from your parish, your sponsor, and your family as youprepare to be confirmed. Remember, Confirmation is a once-in-alifetimecelebration. Do everything you can to prepare well!O God,You call all people of the earth toyourself.You have called me to be a candidatefor Confirmation.Help me to answer your call bygladly fulfilling the responsibilitiesof my candidacy and bybeing the best candidate I canpossibly be.I pray that during this time I’lldeepen my relationship withyou and your Son, JesusChrist.I pray that the Holy Spirit willhelp me and guide me in all Ido. Amen.Being a Candidate 25