Confirmation
Confirmation is a sacrament in the Christian faith that strengthens the baptized individual's connection with the Holy Spirit and fully initiates them into the Church. It is considered one of the three sacraments of initiation, along with Baptism and Eucharist (Communion). In Confirmation, the person confirms the faith into which they were baptized and receives the gifts of the Holy Spirit, equipping them for their journey as disciples of Christ.
Confirmation is important because it deepens the grace received at Baptism and strengthens the bond between the individual and the Church. Through the anointing with chrism (holy oil) by a bishop or priest, the confirmed person receives the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. This sacrament empowers the individual to live out their faith more fully, to witness to Christ in the world, and to participate more actively in the mission of the Church.
Preparation: Candidates for Confirmation typically undergo a period of preparation, which includes learning about the faith, understanding the sacrament, and discerning their commitment to the Church. This often includes attending classes, retreats, and engaging in prayer and reflection.
Celebration: The Confirmation ceremony usually takes place during a special Mass. The candidate renews their baptismal promises and professes their faith. The bishop or priest lays hands on the candidate and anoints them with chrism, invoking the Holy Spirit and sealing them with the gifts of the Spirit.
Fruits of Confirmation: After Confirmation, the confirmed person is encouraged to live as a committed disciple of Christ, actively participating in the life of the Church, sharing their faith with others, and serving their community with love and compassion.
Confirmation is a significant step in the Christian journey, marking the full initiation of the individual into the Church and empowering them to live a life of faith and witness to the world. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing presence and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives as Christians.