The Most Reverend Edward M. Rice, Auxiliary Bishop of Saint Louis, representing His Grace, the Most Reverend Robert J. Carlson, Archbishop of Saint Louis, administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to a group of nearly 25 young adults at St. Francis de Sales Oratory on October 20.

At the beginning of the Year of Faith, Bishop Rice emphasized the duty of Catholics by virtue of the Sacrament of Confirmation to be living witnesses of the Faith in their words and behavior. This duty is all the more serious as moral values and religious principles are so greatly challenged in today's increasingly secularized world.

After the conferral of the Confirmations, the Reverend Canon William Avis, Pro-Rector of Saint Francis de Sales Oratory, during the convalescence of the Rector, Canon Michael Wiener, celebrated a Solemn Mass in the presence of the bishop. The Gregorian Chant for the Mass was beautifully sung by the Men's Schola under the direction of Mr. Nick Botkins.

Afterwards a delightful reception followed in the church hall, where the faithful had the opportunity to greet Bishop Rice and to thank His Excellency for his spiritual paternity.

Photos by Mr. Jerry Naunheim.