It is all too seldom that a bishop has the opportunity to speak directly to a large audience of his brothers in ministry bishops, priests and deacons. Seldom, too, is the opportunity presented to speak upon that ministry dear to a bishop the rite of confirmation. In the sacrament of confirmation we impart the seal of the Spirit, a gratifying experience of our pastoral office. Here in the center of the parish liturgy, the leader of the diocese, the leader of the parish and the leader of the family join to prepare and welcome the young and new members of the Church to the fullness of their calling as believing People of God.