Dear Catholic Exchange:
I'm helping with a Confirmation class this year and we are discussing the gifts of the Holy Spirit. How do I explain each one to 15-year-olds?
Thank you!
Colette
Dear Colette,
Peace in Christ! If we found ourselves teaching the gifts of the Spirit in the context of Confirmation, our approach would be to present each gift in terms of how it helps one to live the life of faith more fully and perfectly. God’s gifts have purpose in relation to our growth in grace and are given that we might serve better Him and others. A brief but useful lesson can be found in book seven of the Faith and Life series, The Life of Grace, published by Ignatius Press. Chapter Twenty, “The Gifts of the Holy Spirit,” presents both the gifts and fruits of the Spirit. The purpose for placing a presentation on the gifts and fruits of the Spirit in the same chapter is to make the connection that God’s gifts are meant to bear fruit in our lives.
Faith and Life is a grade school catechism, but book seven has been used effectively for older students preparing for Confirmation. It can be ordered from Benedictus Books at 1-888-316-2640.
Lastly, in your presentation, tie in nos. 24-27 of the Rite of Confirmation. If you do not personally have a copy of the Rite of Confirmation, you can request one from your pastor.
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