In the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Holy Spirit is given us in a more intense manner, particularly through the outpouring of the Gifts of the Spirit: Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, Counsel, Fortitude, Piety and Fear of the Lord. These gifts enable us to have an innate sense of God’s presence within and the guidance of the Spirit as life progresses.
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.
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.