There comes a time in most teen’s Confirmation faith journey that they convert from just being present to truly being consciously present and focused on how faith is actually taking root in their lives.  Helping to bring teens to that awareness is one of my greatest privileges as a Youth Minister.  It’s that “ah-ha moment” when the teens realize their faith is worth growing and when they profess to be a proud Catholic!
 
At our last session, our Confirmation candidates planted their “seeds of faith” that they nurtured during the last few weeks and they were symbolic decorations on the altar for their Confirmation ceremony this week.  Jesus taught about seeds falling in different kinds of soil that determine their growth.  Yet, I am continually in awe of how God pierces through the hearts of even the teens who don’t start out in good soil, instead in a rocky terrain.  It reminds me of a poster I once had hanging in my office that read, “I may not be easy to reach, but I’m worth it.”  With Jesus, there are no hopeless causes.  He never gave up on anyone.  
 
I am entrusted with amazing opportunities to be present to youth… clear the clutter and be present to them.  What a gift!  For I realize that I can only see God working through us when I am present to Him.  Maybe, just maybe, if I am totally present to someone, God will work through me and that will make a difference.  So today I pray that I do not miss an opportunity to reach out and not give up on anyone.       
 
Congratulations to our 36 teens who received the Sacrament of Confirmation this week!  You are a blessing in my life!