During preparation for Confirmation our aim is to keep in focus the graces and gifts which the sacrament of Confirmation grants to us.
Confirmation leads the Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit, in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life (Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 1309)
Sacramental catechesis (the preparation to celebrate the sacrament) is a process of conversion. The primary purpose of preparation is more than the assurance that a candidate "knows enough" to celebrate the sacrament. Rather, we want to emphasize education and formation. Preparation should put people in touch with the sacramental mystery they are about to celebrate in such a way that they are formed, shaped and transformed by that mystery. Sacramental preparation should lead us to ask the question of ourselves, "What difference does this action mean to me and how can I best reflect that difference in my life as a Christian?"
The Rite of Confirmation is coordinated through High School Youth Ministry. Baptized teens who have received the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist and are in the ninth grade or above may enroll in Confirmation/Christianity 101 classes. Each teen is required to have participated in either our parish faith formation program or in a Catholic school for a minimum of one (1) year prior to the year of immediate preparation for this sacrament. Confirmation preparation is a 2-year process starting with Christianity 101 Catechetical class first year and upon completion of an interview with Father Justin second year with High School Youth Ministry program. Classes meeting Sunday 6:30-8:30p.
For more information on the program contact Michael Troeller
Baptized Adults who practice their Catholic Faith but have not yet been confirmed should contact Deacon Frank DeSanto so special instructions and arrangements may be made for Confirmation. Learn more...
"Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" And they said, "No, we have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit." And he said, "Into what then were you baptized?" They said, "Into John's baptism." And Paul said, "John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus." On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came upon them. (Acts 19:2-6)