Christ Church Jebel Ali was delighted to welcome Bishop Sean on Trinity Sunday for a memorable Confirmation Service, writes Manisha Cornelius.

Fifteen candidates were confirmed in the presence of their families, friends and the wider church community, marking an important milestone in their journey of faith. It was a wonderful service filled with prayer, worship and thanksgiving.  

In his Trinity Sunday sermon, Bishop Sean reflected on the mystery of the Holy Trinity. Using simple analogies, he described the Trinity as a relationship of perfect, self-giving love, revealed most clearly in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He also spoke of God’s sustaining love at work in churches across the region during recent challenges, strengthening communities to persevere in faith and ministry.

Addressing the confirmands, Bishop Sean emphasised that Confirmation is not just a single event but a lifelong commitment to follow Jesus, listen to the Holy Spirit, and choose faith each day. He encouraged them to see every day as an opportunity to renew and live out their Christian calling.

Following the service, Bishop Sean spent time interacting with members of the congregation. During an especially engaging meet-and-greet session, he spoke about the structure, role and ministry of the Diocese, answering questions from parishioners about diocesan life and the wider Church. The opportunity for open conversation and fellowship was greatly appreciated by all.

We are especially grateful for the guidance and support of our parish priest, the Reverend Jim Young, whose encouragement, teaching and pastoral care helped prepare the confirmands for this important step in their Christian journey. We also recognise Samantha Van Rensburg and Tshele Moloi for assisting Fr Jim in preparing the confirmands.

We give thanks for our 15 confirmands and pray that they may continue to grow in faith, guided and strengthened by the Holy Spirit. We also thank Bishop Sean for his visit and ministry among us.