Confirmation

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

Confirmation is one of the three sacraments of initiation. In the Latin Rite (Roman) Catholic Church, this sacrament is typically received during adolescence. Upon receiving it (if it is the final sacrament of initiation), one is considered a Catholic in full communion with the Church.

Confirmation invokes the fullness of the Holy Spirit upon each candidate, asking God to bring to completion the good work that He started in them in baptism  and also bestowing upon them the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, to aid them in being witnesses to the beauty, truth, and goodness of Christ and His Church.

Confirmation is meant to be a launching point in the lives of those who receive it – to propel them to live their Catholic faith as a faithful witness to the hope that is in them (1 Pet. 3:15). Through the Holy Spirit, the confirmandi are sent forth to be Christ to and for others, living lives of virtue, service, and love.

Confirmation for those under 18 requires two years of preparation in our CCD Classes. Students should have received two consecutive years of religious education, either through our parish CCD classes or another (proof is needed), and must complete all required projects (i.e. saint report, service project) to demonstrate their grasp of the Catholic faith and their assent to all it encompasses. Students normally begin this preparation during their 7th grade year. After completing the requisite two year preparation and other requirements, a candidate is then presented for confirmation in October of their 9th grade year.