CONFIRMATION GUIDELINES:
The
Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that “From that
time on the apostles, in fulfillment of Christ’s will,
imparted to the newly baptized by the laying of hands the
gift of the Spirit that completes the grace of Baptism… The
imposition of hands is rightly recognized as the origin of
the sacrament of Confirmation, which in a certain way
perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the Church” [(CCC):1288].
The Catechism notes that “Very early [in the life of the
Church], the better to signify the gift of the Holy Spirit,
an anointing with perfumed oil [chrism] was added to the
laying on of hands. This anointing highlights the name
“Christian” which means “anointed” and derives from that of
Christ himself whom God “anointed with the Holy Spirit.”…In
the West, Confirmation suggests both the ratification of
Baptism, thus completing Christian initiation, and the
strengthening of baptismal grace- both fruits of the Holy
Spirit” [(CCC): 1289]
Qualifications
of Candidates:
Each
baptized Catholic has the right and the obligation to
receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, but the candidate has
the responsibility to personally choose to complete
initiation into the faith life of the Church. The candidate
may request the sacrament if he/she:
Qualifications of Candidates:
Each baptized Catholic has the right and the
obligation to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation,
but the candidate has the responsibility to personally
choose to complete initiation into the faith life of
the Church. The candidate may request the sacrament
if he/she:
a.
Is baptized and able to renew
Baptismal promises, unless a grave reason suggests
otherwise.
b.
Exhibits an active faith life and
knowledge of the Church.
c.
Participates in the sacramental life
of the Church, especially Eucharistic liturgies.
d.
Is willing to commit to active
involvement in the parish Confirmation catechesis.
e.
Is willing to respond to the call to
active ministry.
f.
Is willing to continue to learn and
grow in faith following Confirmation and throughout
his/her lifetime.
Age of Candidate:
In our parish and in accord with our
bishop’s recommendation, Candidates should have been
actively with in faith formation in 9th and
10th Grade; therefore, we confirm in the
eleventh grade. The 11th grade for the
confirmation sacrament is best seen as a continuation
of the years of catechesis though childhood. Faith
Formation is required in order to apply to
confirmation preparation. Regular attendance at the
scheduled Monday night youth meetings is suggested for
all candidates.
All paperwork as listed in the
Confirmation Handbook must be turned in by January.
Full participation in scheduled activities is
expected.
Sponsors:
Sponsors represent in a personal way the witness and
support of the parish/church community. Sponsors walk
with the Candidate through the preparation serving as
a role model and mentor. The sponsor is encouraged to
be part of the Confirmation team and of the
Confirmation Celebration.
To perform the role of the sponsor, it is necessary
that a person fulfill the conditions stated in the
Code of Canon Law # 874:
1. be
designated by the one to be baptized (confirmed), by
the parents or the one who takes their place or, in
their absence, by the pastor or minister and is
to have the qualifications and intention of
performing this role;
2. have
completed the sixteenth year, unless a different age
has been established by the diocesan bishop or it
seems to the pastor or minister that an exception is
to be made for a just cause;
3. be
a Catholic who has been confirmed and has already
received the sacrament of the Eucharist and leads a
life in harmony with the faith and the role to be
undertaken;
4.
not be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately
imposed or declared (e.g. if married, marriage must
be recognized by the Catholic Church as valid).
5. not
be the father or the mother of the one to be
baptized. (confirmed)
Lifelong Faith Formation Statement | Parish Mission Statement | Lifelong Faith Formation Goals | The Role Of The Family | The Faith Of The Parents | Parents As Primary Educators | Registration Policy | Attendence | Excused and unexcused Absences | Pick Up Policy | Drop Off Policy | Discipline | Dress Code | Fees | Communications | Field Trips | Protecting God's Children Program | Other Situations | Baptism | First Reconcilation | First Eucharist | Confirmation | RICA For Children | Quince Anõs Celebrations | Adult Formation | Life Long Faith Formation Class Times
