Confirmation (‘strengthening’) completes the initiation (entry) of Baptism, with prayer for the gift of the Holy Spirit who is poured out upon us, to fortify our Faith and deepen our Christian commitment. The Gift and grace of the Spirit dwelling within us moves us from being simply Disciples, followers, of Christ, to being also Apostles of Christ, proclaiming his Good News and making it happen by sharing in his work. In this way Confirmation is a sacrament of ongoing conversion, and a sacrament of mature and adult faith.
Adults are usually Confirmed immediately after Baptism and then share in Communion in the Body of Christ with the assembly of the Church. This threefold sacrament of Initiation is usually celebrated on Easter Night.
Young People who have been baptized as infants in the faith of their parents are usually Confirmed by the Bishop in their early teens (School Year 8 or above). If you feel you are ready and wanting to be confirmed in your faith and practice next time the Parish invites the Bishop to celebrate the Sacrament, please keep an eye on the newsletter for the announcement of the preparation programme.
Why Be Confirmed?
- Confirmation empowers and celebrates our adult faith. It strengthens our growth in Christ.
- Confirmed Christians are enabled to take to take a full and active part in the life of the Church.
- They may and should take part and minister at Mass each Sunday in whatever role the Parish calls them to and their talents suit them for.
- They can and ought to take an active part in the life of their Parish and their community, again according to their talents and gifts:- The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is the source and strength of their Christian life and vocation, in family or single life, in service and profession, in citizenship and civic responsibility, in social and in cultural life.
When does Confirmation take place?
Confirmation takes place once a year during Mass when the bishop visits the parish for the celebration. The date of the celebration changes each year with preparation classes starting a few months before the celebration. Keep any eye on the parish newsletter for more information.