The chapel at Hato Pāora College was alive with wairua and aroha on Sunday 27 July as students, staff, and whānau gathered for the Confirmation.
Presided over by Bishop John Adams, the Mass was a powerful expression of Catholic tradition interwoven with te ao Māori. The Confirmation liturgy was enriched by the boys waiata, karakia, and the presence of whānau, affirming the college’s unique role in nurturing both spiritual and cultural growth.
In his homily, Bishop Adams mentioned the former All Black Norm Hewitt and how this rugby player’s reconciliation with his father changed his life. “Perhaps this is why Jesus asked all of us to pray “Our Father…”.
The candidates, dressed in their school uniforms, received the sacrament of Confirmation with reverence and dignity. Each was presented, renewed their baptism vows and was anointed with sacred chrism, surrounded by the support of sponsors, teachers, and proud whānau.
Acting Principal Wiremu Paniora praised the students for their commitment and the dignity with which the students acquitted themselves.
Thank you to Whaea Hayley Baker for preparing and accompanying these 13 rangatahi on their faith journey.
