While many Buffalo Bills fans were flying high last Sunday, the news that the team had reached the playoffs presented a scheduling conflict with a Confirmation Mass which had been planned for months. About 70 young people from Nativity of Our Lord Parish in Orchard Park are scheduled to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation this Sunday at 1:15 p.m. The Bills are scheduled to kick off against the Jacksonville Jaguars in an NFL Wildcard Game at 1:05 p.m.

That's where the "option play" comes in.  Bishop Richard J. Malone has offered to celebrate two Confirmation Masses; one at 1:15 p.m. for those who prefer to stick to the original plan, and another at the 10:30 a.m. Mass for those who wish to get home in time for the big game.

"Obviously, there is an infinity of difference in importance between a Sacrament (like Confirmation) and a Bills game," said Bishop Malone. "We hope but never know if the Bills will win.  And if they do win, which we all cheer for, so what ultimately?  On the other hand, we know that Christ has ALREADY won the victory for us in his death and resurrection, and it is for our eternal salvation! "

Given the fact that most of the Confirmands were not even born the last time the Bills played in a playoff game in January of 2000, the "option play" is getting good reviews on WBEN Radio where Bishop Malone was a guest on the LIVE-line Wednesday morning. Listen here:   

http://www.wben.com/media/audio-channel/bishop-richard-malone-game-day-dilemma-op