Pastoral Issues

Considerations Linked to the Sacrament of Confirmation

Spiritual Preparation: 

Ensuring candidates understand the significance of Confirmation and are spiritually prepared to receive the sacrament.

Catechesis: 

Providing comprehensive instruction on the sacrament, including its meaning, significance, and responsibilities.

Formation of Candidates: 

Fostering a deeper relationship with Christ and the Church, preparing candidates to live out their faith as active members of the Christian community.

Support for Parents and Sponsors: 

Offering guidance and resources for parents and sponsors to support candidates in their journey towards Confirmation.

Liturgical Preparation: 

Planning and organizing the Confirmation liturgy to ensure it is reverent, meaningful, and inclusive of all participants.

Inclusion and Accessibility: 

Ensuring that Confirmation preparation and celebration are accessible to candidates with diverse backgrounds, abilities, and needs.

Pastoral Care: 

Providing pastoral support and guidance to candidates throughout the Confirmation process, addressing any questions, concerns, or challenges they may encounter.

Continued Formation: 

Encouraging ongoing spiritual growth and formation beyond Confirmation, fostering a lifelong commitment to faith and discipleship.

Pastoral Questions

Who teaches candidates about religion? What roles do the Pastoral Team, priests, parents, sponsors, and peers play?

When candidates hear about Confirmation, do they think of Jesus or the bishop? Does this apply to all sacraments?

How do Confirmation candidates connect with the parish before, during, and after Confirmation? Can they take on leadership roles?

Can Confirmation candidates help plan the Confirmation ceremony?

How do Confirmation candidates balance school, church, and other activities with Confirmation preparation? Is the pastoral team understanding?

What comes after Confirmation for candidates? Do they continue learning about their faith?

How does Confirmation prepare young people for adult life and tough issues?

How do young people learn to pray and understand scripture during Confirmation?

How are the Eucharist and reconciliation part of Confirmation candidates' lives?

Will there be ongoing support for spiritual growth after Confirmation?

Does the parish offer adult education that interests young people?

What gives young people hope and purpose? How do they feel the Spirit in their community?

How can young people help solve global problems and heal society's divides? (Power, 1999)

References

Power, M. (1999). Confirmation: A Pastoral Approach. The Furrow, 50(4), 226–231. http://www.jstor.org/stable/27663855