Confirmation
"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you will be my witnesses." — Acts 1:8
Completion of Baptismal Grace
Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism by sealing the candidate with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This sacrament strengthens our bond with the Church and empowers us to bear witness to Christ in word and deed. Through anointing with sacred chrism and the laying on of hands, we receive the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit to live as courageous witnesses of the faith.
"Confirmation perfects Baptismal grace; it is the sacrament which gives the Holy Spirit to root us more deeply in the divine filiation, incorporate us more firmly into Christ, strengthen our bond with the Church..." — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1316
Who May Be Confirmed?
Youth candidates who have completed preparation (typically ages 14-16)
Adult candidates completing Christian initiation through RCIA
Baptized Catholics who haven't received Confirmation
Those prepared to publicly renew baptismal promises
Essential Requirements
Baptismal certificate (recent copy for parish records)
Completion of Confirmation classes and retreat
A godparent who is a practicing, confirmed Catholic
Active participation in parish life and service projects
The Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Through Confirmation, we receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit's gifts
Wisdom
Understanding
Counsel
Fortitude
Knowledge
Piety
Fear of the Lord
"The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord. They belong in their fullness to Christ, Son of David. They complete and perfect the virtues of those who receive them." — Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1831
Confirmation Preparation Journey
A comprehensive process of spiritual formation and discipleship
Register with the parish and attend the orientation meeting with parents and candidates to understand the preparation process and expectations.
Attend weekly formation sessions focusing on the Holy Spirit, sacraments, Church teaching and living as a disciple of Christ.
Participate in a Confirmation retreat focused on prayer, community building and deepening relationship with the Holy Spirit.
Meet regularly with your godparent and complete service projects that demonstrate living out your faith in action.
Receive the Sacrament of Confirmation from the Bishop, renew baptismal promises and be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Godparent Guidelines
Must be a confirmed Catholic in good standing
At least 16 years of age
Regularly practicing the faith (Mass, sacraments)
Willing to support the candidate spiritually
💫 "The godparent's role is to help the confirmed person to lead a Christian life in keeping with baptism and to fulfill faithfully the obligations inherent in it." — Code of Canon Law, 892
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, adult candidates are always welcome! Adults who haven't been confirmed should contact the parish office to arrange preparation, which is typically done through the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) program or through special adult Confirmation classes.
A godparent supports the candidate's faith journey by their example, prayer, and encouragement. They stand with the candidate during the Confirmation ceremony and should be a spiritual mentor who helps the newly confirmed live out their Catholic faith. The godparent should be someone who practices their faith regularly and can provide ongoing spiritual support.
Confirmation is typically celebrated once annually, often during the Easter season or around Pentecost. The exact date varies by parish and diocese. At Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Confirmation is usually celebrated in the spring. Contact the parish office for the current year's schedule and registration deadlines.
Ready to Be Sealed with the Spirit?
Take the next step in your faith journey and receive the fullness of the Holy Spirit's gifts.
Quick Facts
Begin Your Preparation
Register early to ensure complete preparation for this important sacrament.