Confirmation
CONFIRMATION
Strengthened by the Holy Spirit
Confirmation strengthens the grace of Baptism and seals us with the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through this sacrament, we are more firmly united with Christ and His Church and strengthened to live and witness to our Catholic faith.
The Holy Spirit who came upon the Apostles at Pentecost continues to strengthen the Church today. In Confirmation, we receive a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit that deepens our baptismal grace and equips us to live courageously as disciples of Jesus Christ.
Confirmation is not a graduation from our Catholic faith. It is a call to a deeper relationship with Christ and a greater responsibility to share His love with the world.
The Holy Spirit strengthens us not simply for ourselves, but so that we can bring Christ to others.
Pentecost: Sent on Mission
Before His Ascension, Jesus promised His disciples that they would receive the power of the Holy Spirit and become His witnesses.
At Pentecost, that promise was fulfilled. The Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles and transformed them from frightened disciples into courageous witnesses who proclaimed the Gospel.
That same Holy Spirit is at work in the Church today. Through Confirmation, we are strengthened to witness to Christ in our families, schools, workplaces, communities, and throughout the world.
“You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses.” — Acts 1:8
THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
Sealed with the Gift
of the Holy Spirit.
In Confirmation, the baptized are strengthened by the Holy Spirit and more firmly united with Christ and His Church. The sacrament deepens the grace received at Baptism and calls us to live and witness our Catholic faith with courage.
“They laid hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.”
— Acts 8:17
ANOINTED WITH SACRED CHRISM
During Confirmation, the bishop or priest anoints the candidate with Sacred Chrism and says, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” This anointing signifies the strengthening and consecration of the baptized by the Holy Spirit.
STRENGTHENED FOR DISCIPLESHIP
Confirmation strengthens us to live as disciples of Jesus Christ and to witness to the Gospel through our words, choices, service, and daily lives.
UNITED WITH THE CHURCH
Through Confirmation, our bond with the Church is strengthened as we are called to participate more fully in her mission and life.
THE HOLY SPIRIT AT WORK IN US
The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit
WISDOM
Helps us see our lives and the world through God's eyes. Wisdom teaches us to value what leads us closer to God and to recognize what truly matters.
FORTITUDE
Gives us courage and strength to remain faithful to Christ, especially when following Him is difficult. Fortitude helps us stand for what is right and live our faith without fear.
UNDERSTANDING
Helps us grasp more deeply the truths of our Catholic faith. It opens our hearts and minds to better understand God's Word and His plan for our lives.
KNOWLEDGE
Helps us recognize God's purpose in creation and understand our lives in relationship with Him. It reminds us that everything we have ultimately comes from God and should lead us back to Him.
FEAR OF THE LORD
Does not mean being afraid of God. It is a profound sense of wonder and awe before His greatness, holiness, and love. It helps us desire to remain close to God and avoid anything that would separate us from Him.
COUNSEL
Helps us discern what is right and make decisions according to God's will. Through this gift, the Holy Spirit guides our conscience and helps us choose the path that leads to Christ.
PIETY
Deepens our love and reverence for God as our Father. Piety moves us toward prayer, worship, love for the Church, and loving service to others.
PREPARING A TEEN FOR CONFIRMATION?
Youth preparing for Confirmation participate in our Faith Formation program as they deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ, grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith, and prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
ARE YOU AN ADULT SEEKING CONFIRMATION?
Adults who are baptized but have not received the Sacrament of Confirmation may prepare through OCIA or the appropriate adult sacramental preparation process.
Not sure which prgram is right for your family? We’re happy to help.
Deacon Elbert Pagan can help with Confirmation requirements, registration, sacramental records, and questions about preparation.
Deacon Elbert Pagan
Call or text:321-497-2929
Telephone Hours: Monday–Friday, 5:00 PM–8:30 PM
Email: elbert.pagan@saintroseoflimacc.org