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Channels of supernatural life in the Catholic Church take different forms. One of the ways we receive spiritual gifts is through the Sacrament of Confirmation. When receiving this channel, THE Spirit of God comes upon a person in a new way. Although an individual receives God's spirit at baptism, the coming of God's spirit at Confirmation strengthens a person in a powerful way. When someone is confirmed the individual is believed to receive seven spiritual gifts: |
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Wisdom
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Understanding
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Counsel
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Fortitude
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Knowledge
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Piety
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Fear of the Lord (God)
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To allow any other kind of spirit to enter or influence you can cause serious harm. That's why Catholics are opposed to the use of Tarot cards, crystal balls, horoscopes, taking part in séances and other kinds of spiritualist activity. The bottom line is that if it's not God's Spirit you're in contact with, it's not good. |
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Normally, before the age of 18, a senior priest or Bishop, will say special prayers asking God – in the form of the Holy Spirit – to fill the young person with spiritual gifts. Using special oil, the sign of the cross is made on the forehead of the young person and at that moment the Holy Spirit is believed to enter the young person bringing with Him gifts. The person is then said to be "Confirmed". |
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Your guide for this section is Lloyd. He is 56, and lives in London. Click here to read his story. |
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Larry, the cuddly ghost |
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The origins of this channel can be found in the Bible. After Jesus Christ had risen again from the dead and gone to heaven, his followers were together in a room. The Bible tells us that a wind filled the room they were in and tongues of fire appeared on their heads. From there on, they were given incredible powers like being able to instantaneously speak different languages. This event is called "Pentecost". (See The Bible, The Book of Acts, chapter 2, verses 1 – 13). |
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Colour illustration by Elizabeth Wang:
The Descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
Copyright (c) Radiant Light 2004. All rights reserved.
www.radiantlight.org.uk |
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This particular spiritual channel has the effect of bringing about positive fruits in someone's life. The fruits of receiving this Holy Spirit are: charity, joy, peace, patience, goodness, mildness, amongst others.
Through this channel we receive new life and strength. Think of Superman and his superhuman powers. Confirmation helps people act in a spiritually superhuman way! |
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What things empower you to do good in your life? |
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| This is a website of the Catholic Enquiry Office; part of an Agency of the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales |
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