A workshop for candidates who are preparing to be confirmed in 2008 was held at the Parish Center of the Sacred Heart Cathedral on Monday 15^th October 2007. Two hundred and twenty-three candidates from the English language Faith Formation Ministry attended the workshop which started at 7.00 am and ended at 4.30 pm.

The morning started with breakfast at the canteen area before the candidates returned for the first input delivered by catechist Charles Tibok who gave a very entertaining presentation on "The Challenges faced by the Youths Today". This input fueled some very lively banter during the buzzing session that followed. The eagerness demonstrated by candidates to come forward to report on their discussions in front of the whole gathering set everyone on the right mood for the rest of the day.

Gordon Hendricks began his input on "We Are The Church" by asking everyone to sing the song "God is Dwelling in My Heart". Then his slide presentation opened up to the familiar tune of the theme song from "2001, A Space Odyssey". The 'oohs' and 'aahs' of the young people challenged the conception that, surely, they (or their parents) could hardly even know this movie from the 60's.

Lunch was served after the morning session and the hour break and fellowship also gave everyone the opportunity to get to know one another.

The input in the afternoon was presented by the husband and wife team of Boni and Mary Naun. Their topic of "Confirmation, The Beginning of a New Life" gave the young people ample food for thought and their group discussion on this subject revealed some very interesting insights on how they think as budding adults. Curiously marriage seems to be very much on the forefront of their agenda.

Ignatius Matayun wound up the day with a summary of the issues raised during the day's activities. On an encouragng note, most of the candidates pledged to continue to come for the faith formation sessions even after they are confirmed.

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