For Confirmation

 

The Sacrament of Confirmation is the sacrament in which the Holy Spirit confers His gifts through the anointing with the Sacred Chrism by the Bishop (or delegated priest) in order to strengthen the confirmand (person preparing for Confirmation) to be a more faithful witnesses to Christ, and to participate more fully in the mission of the Church.

The gift of the Holy Spirit was first received at Baptism and units us with Christ, but the Sacrament of Confirmation unites us more firmly. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are increased and renders the bond with Jesus more perfect.

It is in this sacrament in which the confirmand, after years of being formed in the faith, renews the Baptismal Promises, which was first proclaimed at Baptism by the parents and godparents.

This, in no way ends the formation of the Christian in his/her faith. It is a renewal of the commitment to grow in knowledge, faithfulness, friendship, and discipleship in Jesus aided by the gifts of the Holy Spirit to go out and help spread the Good News.  

The preparation for Confirmation usually occurs during the 8th grade year and after several years of continued faith formation.

Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation for people under the age of 17 should reach out to the Faith Formation Ministry Office. Adults 18 years of age and older should reach out to the Director of Christian Initiation for Adults.