What is Confirmation?
The Catholic Church considers confirmation the second of three Sacraments of Initiation. Baptism is the first sacrament and Communion is the third sacrament. Confirmation is the perfection of Baptism. The introduction to the Rite of Confirmation states:
By the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed. Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1285
How does an adult become Confirmed?
- If you are over 18 and have been baptized Catholic, continue reading this page to learn how you can become confirmed.
- If you are over 18 and you have not been baptized Catholic or have been baptized in another Christian faith, please click here to go to the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults) page.
- If you are under 18, please click here to go to our Youth Ministry and Confirmation page.
How can I receive the Sacrament of Confirmation when I am an adult?
If you were baptized Catholic, you must attend a Confirmation class - see below for how to register. If you were not baptized Catholic or not baptized, please click here to go to the RCIA page.
What are the other sacraments?
There are seven sacraments:
- Baptism
- Confirmation
- Eucharist
- Reconciliation
- Anointing of the Sick
- Matrimony
- Holy Orders
Do we have to receive Confirmation?
Yes. We must receive Confirmation if the grace of Baptism is to have its complete effect in us.
Did Christ give us the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Yes. Before He died He promised to send the Holy Spirit to strengthen the Apostles. When He did send the Spirit, they began to administer Confirmation (see Acts 8:5, and 14-17)
What are the special graces of Confirmation that Jesus gives us?
Jesus gives us:
- An increase in God’s life which equals Grace
- A deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit
- The sacramental mark of having been Confirmed
- Strength to live our faith and to defend it and share it with others
What are the special gifts of the Holy Spirit given to us in Confirmation?
There are seven:
- Wisdom
- Understanding
- Right judgment
- Courage
- Knowledge
- Reverence (deep love of Christ)
- Fear of the Lord: Wonder & Awe
Who is eligible for the adult Confirmation program?
Anyone who is 18, baptized Catholic, and, who has received their First Communion.
If your marriage was not in the Catholic Church, the marriage should be blessed.
Do you have to be confirmed in order to be married in the Catholic Church?
Church law says yes. Exceptions are made. But clearly it is expected that Catholics who are being married in the Church must be confirmed before the marriage ceremony.
How do I become confirmed as an Adult?
Call the Parish Office and register for the Adult Confirmation classes that begin in September or January.
What if I have more questions?
Contact Sr. Lucia Tu, SDSH or Sr. Diane Heiss, SDSH at 688-4815 Ext 228 for Adult Confirmation classes in English or Deacon Ancelmo Aguirre at 688-4815 Ext 225 for Adult Confirmation classes in Spanish.