Our hearts are filled with gratitude as we celebrated the successful administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation in St.Thomas of Canterbury church at Brandon. We sincerely thank Almighty God for His abundant grace and for blessing this beautiful occasion. We are deeply honored and grateful to Bishop Peter for presiding over the celebration and for sharing his inspiring words that strengthened our faith and encouraged us to walk closely with Christ. His presence among us was a great blessing and a true sign of God’s love for our parish community. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to our catechists, parents, sponsors, choir, and all who worked tirelessly to prepare the candidates and ensure the success of this special day. To our newly confirmed brothers and sisters, may the gifts of the Holy Spirit continue to guide, strengthen, and inspire you to live as faithful disciples of Christ every day. May this sacred milestone mark the beginning of a deeper commitment to prayer, service, and love for God and His Church. We pray that the Holy Spirit will always be your source of wisdom, courage, and hope as you journey in faith. May God abundantly bless all who participated in this celebration, and our entire parish family. We give thanks to God for this memorable day and look forward to witnessing the wonderful fruits of the Holy Spirit in the lives of our newly confirmed members.
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Confirmation - Class of 2026
Over the past 24 weeks, our parish has had the privilege of accompanying fourteen young people on their journey toward the Sacrament of Confirmation. What began as a weekly program has become a powerful testament to how God works in the hearts of those who are willing to listen.
At the beginning of the program, some of our candidates arrived feeling uncertain. Like many young people, they questioned why they were there, wondered what Confirmation truly meant, or simply saw it as another milestone to complete. Their honesty reflected the reality of faith, it often begins with questions before it grows into understanding.
As the weeks progressed, something remarkable began to happen. Through prayer, Scripture, meaningful discussions, and participation in the life of the Church, these young people gradually opened their hearts to God’s presence. They began to see Confirmation not as an obligation, but as an invitation to deepen their relationship with Christ and embrace the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
Their growth was evident in the way they participated in sessions, engaged with one another, asked thoughtful questions, and reflected sincerely on their faith. The uncertainty that some carried into the first meeting gave way to confidence, enthusiasm, and a genuine commitment to living as followers of Christ. It was inspiring to witness each candidate’s unique journey unfold as they discovered that faith is not simply learned—it is lived.
This transformation would not have been possible without the unwavering support of parents, sponsors and our parish family who generously shared their time, wisdom, and encouragement. Their example and guidance helped create an environment where faith could flourish.
These fourteen candidates now received the Sacrament of Confirmation from Bishop Peter, we celebrated not only the completion of a 24-week program but the beginning of a lifelong journey of discipleship. Confirmation is not the end of their faith formation; it is a new beginning, empowering them to live courageously as witnesses to Christ in their families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
We ask our parish family to continue praying for each of them, that the Holy Spirit may strengthen them with wisdom, understanding, courage, and love. May they always remember that the faith they have embraced over these past 24 weeks will continue to guide them throughout their lives.
Congratulations to all sixteen Confirmation candidates, fourteen from our own parish with two who joined us on the day from St. Dominics, Downham Market along with father Simon. Your dedication, openness, and spiritual growth have been a blessing to our parish, and we look forward to seeing the many ways God will continue to work through each of you.
Copyright 2009-2026, St. Thomas & St. John Catholic Parish.
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The Roman Catholic Parish of Brandon and Mildenhall is part of the Diocese of East Anglia covering Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and the Unitary Authority of Peterborough within the Province of Westminster, part of the Catholic Church of England and Wales in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.