Confirmation is a Sacrament of Initiation. It is one in which we as Catholics pass on the faith and candidates receive the Holy Spirit, confirming their intent to live out a life of faith as adult Catholic Christians. The sacrament strengthens and renews the graces of our Baptism, empowering us to go forth and participate in the mission of the Church.
Preparation for this sacrament begins in high school with a 5-week Come and See session beginning in October, where participants will explore Catholicism and their role in the Church. At the end of this session, they will then decide whether they would like to begin the Confirmation process. Confirmation is a two-year program with various faith gatherings, activities and regular classes from January to May on Sunday evenings from 6:30-8pm. Preparation involves discussion of Catholic theology, service to the community and participation in retreats. Parents are encouraged to participate by attending several classes during this process.
Candidates are age 16 or in their sophomore year of high school when confirmed. Each chooses a Saint whose life they strive to emulate and a Confirmation Sponsor (practicing Catholic, over the age of 16, other than their parents) to be their companion on their life-long faith journey.
Confirmation and the other Sacraments of Initiation are received together through the Right of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA). This is a process that builds on the spirituality of adults to come to Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist at Easter. By uncovering the relevance of faith in our daily lives, we build a long-term basis for meaning and joy. Those seeking these Sacraments of Initiation will meet on a weekly basis from September to Easter to study our human experiences in the light of the Bible, the teachings of the Catholic Church and the Sacraments we celebrate together.
Contact the Parish Office for more information on preparation for this Sacrament