ACTS 8:14-17
Confirmation
Baptism, the Eucharist, and the sacrament of Confirmation together constitute the “sacraments of Christian initiation,” whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For “by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed.” Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1285
In the Rite of Confirmation, the Bishop (or a Priest who represents the Bishop) extends his hands over you and asks the Holy Spirit to come to you with seven special graces, or gifts: wisdom, understanding, right judgment, courage, knowledge, reverence, and wonder & awe.
Preparation
The preparation process for Confirmation consists of class sessions in which the candidates strengthen their faith and learn the scriptures, symbols, and effects of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Candidates also participate in a retreat and are encouraged to complete service to the Church. Parents should encourage their children during the preparation process for Confirmation. Parents are the first teachers of the faith, and the Church assists them in this mission. At Baptism, parents accepted the responsibility of training their children in the practice of the faith. Participation in the sacramental preparation program helps parents in living out this promise.
Sponsors
In Baptism, parents and godparents promised that the child would be raised in the faith. They professed their faith on behalf of the child. In Confirmation the candidates will speak for themselves; they will renew their Baptismal promises. To support them, candidates will choose a sponsor who will stand with them as they are presented to the Bishop for Confirmation.
The Church encourages, if possible, that one of the Baptismal Godparents serve as a sponsor for Confirmation because this expresses more clearly the link between the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. A good choice for a sponsor is someone who has been close to the candidate (someone other than a parent) and supportive throughout life. The sponsor must have been Baptized Catholic, must receive Holy Communion regularly, and have been confirmed. They must be at least 16 years old, and a good role model of the Catholic faith. If they are married, they must have received the Sacrament of Matrimony in the Catholic faith.
Registration
Students should register for Confirmation preparation by contacting the parish office. College students and other adults should inquire about the “Becoming Catholic” (RCIA) process.
Contact the parish office for more information at 303.455.3613.