Today's first reading makes a sharp distinction between the baptism performed by John the Baptist and the baptism performed by the apostles. The baptism by John was a simple ceremony whereby a person publicly testified that he/she wished to repent, to abandon sin for a life of dedication to God. The effect of this baptism was entirely dependent on the good will of the person. It had no power to change his life. He indeed needed the grace or the power of God to respond, Whereas the baptism performed by the apostles or confirmation as it is known today has the power of the Holy Spirit. This power transforms us into the person of Christ. We become part of Christ, part of His mystical body - the Church. This new identity gives us courage.

In the Gospel, Jesus says, "Take courage, I have overcome the world". Because of our oneness with Christ, we too have overcome the world, the symbol of sin and death. Yes, confirmation is indeed the great fundamental event of our lives. Therefore let us thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit.