The Sacrament
The Gift of the Holy Spirit. The Call to Discipleship.
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation into the Catholic Church, along with Baptism and the Eucharist. It is the sacrament in which the Holy Spirit seals you as a child of God and commissions you as a witness to Christ in the world.
The Bishop anoints your forehead with sacred chrism - holy oil - while saying: “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” This is not symbolic. This is real. The Holy Spirit comes upon you, empowering you to live as a disciple of Christ and to testify to your faith boldly.
Where Does Confirmation Come From?
Confirmation comes directly from the Apostles. After Pentecost, the apostles laid hands on believers to seal them with the Holy Spirit, such as what Peter and John did in Samaria. The apostolic practice - of the laying on the hands to impart the Holy Spirit - is the origin of Confirmation. The Church has maintained this sacrament for nearly 2,000 years, and it carries the same power and authority today.
What Does the Holy Spirit Give You?
When you are confirmed, the Holy Spirit gives you seven gifts to help you live as a disciple and witness:
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Wisdom - see life from God’s perspective
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Understanding - grasp the truths of faith deeply
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Counsel - know the right thing to do
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Fortitude - courage to stand firm in your faith
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Knowledge - recognize God’s presence in your life
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Piety - deep love for God shown in prayer and reverence
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Fear of the Lord - awe before God’s majesty and desire never to offend Him
What Confirmation Asks of You?
Confirmation is not a graduation from religious education. It is a commission and a commitment. When you are confirmed, you say yes to:
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Living openly as a Catholic - not hiding or apologizing for your faith
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Being a witness - letting Christ shine through your words and choices
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Growing in holiness - using the gifts of the Holy Spirit
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Serving the Church and the world - bringing Christ’s love to those around you
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Standing firm - even when following Jesus is difficult
You are not being asked to do something impossible. You are empowered by the Holy Spirit Himself to do this.
