A nun with lightsabers. 100 priests hearing confession. Spontaneous song. Prayers over pizza. Toddlers at Mass. The Eucharistic Congress is chaotic, loud, fun—and glorious.

It has come to my attention, after careful research, that my husband and I might be exhibiting all the signs of a condition we’ll call Long Marriage. Maybe you have it, too.

Whether carefully reflected upon or chosen at random, picking a confirmation name is a personal and spiritual journey for Catholics, reflecting a connection to the saints or a loved one and a commitment to embodying their virtues.

In young people preparing for confirmation, I see a yearning for something more in their lives, beyond the noise and distractions of technology and social isolation.

I had hoped she would want to be confirmed, but I also know that this step in her faith journey is not about me.

Eliminating a seminary diaconate is not only possible but necessary for envisioning a mature and fully formed diaconate for the future.