The Rite of Confirmation Saint Jude Catholic Church

The Rite of Confirmation

The Rite of Confirmation Acts 8:14-17 "Now, when the apostles, who were in Jerusalem, had heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John. Who, when they were come, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Ghost. For he was not as yet come upon any of them: but they were only baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands upon them: and they received the Holy Ghost.

What does Confirmation do? Indelibly seals us to the Holy Ghost, hence its name, "Sacrament of the Seal." Because this seal is indelible and leaves a permanent mark on the recipient's soul, the Sacrament, like Baptism and Holy Orders, may be received only once.  

What does Confirmation do? Gives us the sanctifying grace to become perfect Christians and true soldiers of Christ, well-armed to defend Christ as King, His Mother as Queen, and the Church Militant as His Kingdom on earth. God confirms us (strengthens us) so we may do spiritual battle.

What does Confirmation do? Imparts to us the 7 Gifts of the Holy Spirit, as in a "personal Pentecost": Counsel Right Judgment Fortitude Courage Fear of the Lord Awe in His Presence Wisdom Understanding Knowledge Piety Reverence

What does Confirmation do? Imparts to us the 12 Fruits of the Holy Spirit Gentleness Faithfulness Self-Control Generosity Modesty Chastity Charity (love) Joy Peace Patients Kindness Goodness

Pre-conditions The Sacrament may only be received by one who is baptized, preferably while he is in a state of grace (i.e., not in a state of mortal sin). If it is received when the recipient is not in a state of grace, it is illicitly but still validly received; the fruits of the Sacrament will be delayed until he receives Penance.

Confirmation Minister/Form Minister: Ordinary minister of Confirmation is the Bishop; priests are extraordinary ministers of the Sacrament May offer the Sacrament if authorized by the Bishop Form: “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit”

Confirmation Matter Matter: Imposition of hands and utilization of the chrism (Holy Chrism, "Sanctum Chrisma" or "Oil of Gladness," which is olive oil mixed with a small amount of balm or balsam). Chrism: Utilized in Confirmation, Baptism, Consecration of a Bishop, and ordination of Kings.

Confirmation Facts As in Baptism, a sponsor is chosen to stand for the confirmand. The sponsor should be a baptized and confirmed Catholic who's at least 16 years old, and is well-instructed in the Faith. Also as in Baptism, among those who may not act as sponsors are: parents in respect to their own children. The godparent should act as sponsor at Confirmation if at all possible in order to better tie Baptism and Confirmation together.

Confirmation Facts Just as Abram became Abraham, as Jacob became Israel, as Simon became Peter, the confirmand takes on the name of a Saint when he is sealed to the Holy Spirit. This isn't necessary for the sake of validity, but it is the traditional practice of the Church.

The Rite of Confirmation (CCC) 1309 Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading the Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit - his actions, his gifts, and his biddings - in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life. To this end catechesis for Confirmation should strive to awaken a sense of belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ, the universal Church as well as the parish community.

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