Confirmation at Glenorchy – 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time, 2026
St John the Baptist, Glenorchy 10am
Welcome everyone to St John’s this morning, especially our seven young people who will shortly receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. We also welcome your parents, grandparents, sponsors, families, teachers, and friends. Today is a day of great joy for your parish because the Holy Spirit continues to build up the Church through you.
One of the wonderful things about being Archbishop is seeing the faith of young people. Every Confirmation reminds me that the Church is always young because the Holy Spirit never grows old. The same Spirit who came upon the Apostles at Pentecost is about to be poured out upon these seven children. God is still calling, still strengthening, and still sending his people into the world.
Australians who travel to poorer countries are often struck by the generosity they encounter. People with little somehow possess enormous hearts. Hospitality is one of the most beautiful qualities of humanity. In the Bible it is more than good manners. To welcome another person is to make room for God.
Today’s first reading tells us about the woman of Shunem and her husband. They recognised Elisha as a holy man of God. They did not simply offer him a meal. They prepared a room where he could stay. They made space in their home because they recognised God’s presence in him.
That same invitation comes to each one of us today. The Holy Spirit does not want a guest room in our house. He asks for something even greater. He asks for room in our hearts.
Dear confirmation candidates, in a few moments I will place sacred chrism on your forehead and say, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” That seal is invisible, but it is real. From that moment you belong to Christ in a deeper way. The Spirit will give you strength to choose what is right, courage when following Jesus is not easy, wisdom when life becomes confusing, and kindness that reflects the goodness of God.
The Gospel today reminds us that following Jesus always means putting him first. This is not because Jesus wants to take anything away from us. It is because he knows that when he is at the centre of our lives, everything else finds its proper place.
Then Jesus says something remarkable: “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me.”
Today you become ambassadors for Christ. Wherever you go—to school, onto the sporting field, into your homes, among your friends—people should catch a glimpse of Jesus in you. They may never read the Gospel, but they will read your life. They will notice whether you are honest, forgiving, compassionate and joyful. They will see whether your faith makes a difference.
We began Mass asking the Lord to shine upon us. That is a beautiful prayer. Light never shines for itself. It shines so that others may see. Today Christ wants his light to shine through each one of you. Tasmania needs young Catholics who are not afraid to let that light be seen.
In a few minutes you will receive Holy Communion. The Lord who calls you also feeds you. He never sends us on our own. He says to every disciple, “Here I am.” Then, with wonderful generosity, he invites us to answer with the same words: “Here I am, Lord.” That simple response has changed the course of history. It changed the lives of Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, Mary, and the Apostles. Today it can change your life as well.
At the end of Mass, we shall go back into our lives. Confirmation is not the finish line. It is the beginning of a new chapter. The Holy Spirit sends you out carrying something precious. Take God’s word into your homes, your classrooms, your friendships, and your future. Let your words bring hope. Let your actions speak of Christ. Let your lives become a quiet invitation for others to know him.
To the parishioners, parents, sponsors and families, thank you. Your witness has brought these young people to this day. Continue praying with them, encouraging them, and showing them what it means to follow Christ with generosity.
And to our seven candidates: today the Church believes in you. More importantly, God believes in you. He has chosen you, called you by name and filled you with his Holy Spirit.
May the Holy Spirit set your hearts on fire with the love of Christ. May you always walk in his light. And may your lives become a blessing for everyone you meet.
Most Rev. Anthony J. Ireland
Archbishop of Hobart
28 June 2026