HARVEY: Set Afire: Post-Confirmation teens sharing their gifts

For post-Confirmation teens, this is not just a moment of remembrance — it’s a call to action. Confirmation is not a graduation from faith but the ignition of a lifelong mission. After receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit, teens are invited to discern how God is calling them to use those gifts in their daily lives, in their parishes, and in the world.

Discernment begins with listening — listening to the Holy Spirit, to the community and to one’s own heart. Many teens begin discovering their gifts by asking key questions:

Some turn to prayer and reflection. Others notice a pattern in the activities or ministries that excite them — whether it’s singing in the choir, organizing youth events, comforting peers, or helping younger students understand their faith. Sometimes, spiritual gifts are revealed through a trial-and-error process: stepping into a new ministry, seeing what fits, and trusting God through the journey.

The Church is blessed when young people respond to the Holy Spirit in their daily prayer life and put faith into action to thrive in ministry. For one of my recent Confirmation teens, Lydia’s gift emerged in an unexpected place — her ASL (American Sign Language) class. What started as a curious elective soon became a deep passion. By the time she reached ASL 3 and Confirmation preparation at our parish, she realized this wasn’t just about language — it was about relationship. When she heard that a neighboring parish needed interpreters for the ASL/Spanish Mass, she stepped forward. Although she was nervous, the support from the parish community helped her overcome her fears. 

Standing before the congregation, signing prayers and readings, Lydia began to understand the power of spiritual gifts: her hands were a bridge between communities. The gratitude and affirmation of parishioners confirmed what the Holy Spirit had been whispering — this was her call. Through ASL, Lydia is now helping others fully participate in the Mass and experience the presence of Christ. She received the Gifts of the Holy Spirit at Confirmation and used them to increase the faith in others.

So, what are some ways young people can live out their faith post-Confirmation? Here are some ideas to consider:

Each act, big or small, becomes a flame that lights the faith in others.

The miracle of Pentecost didn’t end with the apostles. It continues every time a young person says “yes” to the Spirit’s prompting. When teens discern and share their gifts, they not only grow in holiness — they help build a Church that is alive, welcoming and on fire with love.

The challenge for every confirmed teen is to keep listening to the Spirit, to stay open to growth, and to use their gifts not for themselves but for the good of others. Because when they do, the Church doesn’t just remember Pentecost — it lives it. †