Most Reverend James Timlin Confirms Twenty-one at Saint Michael’s in Scranton

On a lovely sunny morning the Most Reverend James Timlin, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Scranton, conferred the sacrament of Confirmation on 15 young men and 6 young women at Saint Michael’s Catholic Church in Scranton.  Assisting the Bishop were Fr. Jose Zepeda FSSP, pastor of Saint Michael’s, and Fr. Gregory Pendergraft FSSP, Director of Development for the Fraternity and former pastor of Saint Michael’s.

In his opening words, Bishop Timlin stressed the need to actively cultivate one’s spiritual life and relationship with God in our daily lives, as young men and women grow older and venture on their own into the world.  He also stressed the need to have recourse to the Sacrament of Penance and trust in the unfailing forgiveness of God, Who is always here and always ready to strengthen our faith in Him and forgive our transgressions.  In addition he gave wise counsel on availing ourselves of the graces of the Holy Ghost, reinforcing the need to be aware in our daily lives of these gifts:  wisdom, understanding, knowledge, counsel, fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord.

Families of the confirmands gave thanks to God for the increase in spiritual strength Confirmation brings, and following the Rite of Confirmation before a full church, a reception was held in the parish hall.  The FSSP gives its warmest thanks and prayers for Bishop Timlin, the generous and long time supporter of the FSSP in North America.

Bishop Timlin with Fathers Zepeda and Pendergraft and Confirmands Afterwards

May 18, 2012