Confirmation

Confirmation

Just as our bodies and minds grow, Catholics believe that our souls need to grow in the life of grace. Just as the human body must grow in childhood, adolescence, and then adulthood; the human soul needs to grow into maturity. The Sacrament of Confirmation is the supernatural equivalent of the growth process on the natural level. It builds on what was begun in Baptism and what was nourished in the Holy Eucharist. It completes the process of initiation into the Christian community, and it matures the soul for the work ahead.

Confirmation means accepting responsibility for your faith and your destiny. The focus is on the Holy Spirit, who confirmed the apostles on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) and gave them courage to practice their faith. The same Holy Spirit confirms Catholics during the Sacrament of Confirmation and gives them the same gifts and fruits.

 

What is necessary for my child to receive Confirmation?
At a minimum, your child must:

  • Be baptized in the Catholic Church, or another Christian denomination recognized by the Catholic Church. Basically, they must have been baptized with water and “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

  • If your child is older than eighth grade, we may require completion of the Rite of Christian Initiation of Children (RCIC).

  • Have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation should have taken place along with First Holy Communion.

  • A regular church attendance is also required.


Who can be my child’s sponsor for Confirmation?
Every person being confirmed must have a sponsor. To be a sponsor, you must:

  • Be at least 16 years, or older

  • Have received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation

  • Be an active practicing Catholic and be registered at a Catholic parish

  • Not be the parent of the one being confirmed