Confirmation

The sacrament of Confirmation builds on the baptismal grace, and is received only once, strengthening the recipients in the power of the Spirit, so that they may deepen their life as disciples of Jesus and witnesses to his life and the gospel.

A candidate for Confirmation who has attained the age of reason must profess the faith, be in the state of grace, have the intention of receiving the sacrament, and be prepared to assume the role of disciple and witness to Christ, both within the ecclesial community and in temporal affairs.

The essential rite of Confirmation is anointing the forehead of the baptized with sacred chrism together with the laying on of the minister's hand and the words: “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”

When Confirmation is celebrated separately from Baptism, its connection with Baptism is expressed, among other ways, by the renewal of baptismal promises. The celebration of Confirmation during the Eucharist helps underline the unity of the sacraments of Christian initiation.  (Catechism of the Catholic Church)

For the information of those preparing for the Sacrament in the Diocese of Nelson, here are two documents that are helpful:

• Letter from the Bishop for the current year containing instructions for preparing the children:

More Information:

• Since confirmation is closely related to baptism, it is recommended that one’s baptismal name be used in the rite, but the custom of taking a new (saints) name is accepted.
• There is no fixed age for confirmation in Canada.
• There are certain requirements for the person to be confirmed, the sponsors, and other aspects of the sacrament.
• There is also an educational preparation for the sacrament for both the child/adult involved, for the community, for the parents and sponsors.
• Parents may not be sponsors.  Photos are not taken during mass but may be taken afterward.
• For more information, contact the pastor of your parish or mission.