Receiving Confirmation
Receiving Confirmation
Confirmation is one of the sacraments of Initiation. In the sacrament of Confirmation, we are strengthened by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. When we are confirmed, we are saying "yes" to wanting to continue living our Catholic Christian way of life. Just as the Holy Spirit came down upon the Apostles at Pentecost, the Holy Spirit comes upon us at our Confirmation. And just like the Holy Spirit strengthened the Apostles, the Holy Spirit strenghens us - helps us to live our faith.
The celebration of Confirmation typically takes place during Mass and is celebrated by the Bishop or his delegate. During the Confirmation celebration, the readings and music help us to remember the very first Pentecost and the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives. While the Mass is similar to what we experience during weekend Masses, there are some differences.
First, during the Confirmation celebration, all of those who will receive Confirmation are presented to the Bishop. When you hear your name, you stand, and after everyone's name has been called, as a group, you can take your seat again.
Second, during the Confirmation celebration, those who will receive Confirmation renew their baptismal promises. Click here to see the Renewal of Baptismal Promises. When you are asked to renew your baptismal promises, your response to each question (as a group) is "I do".
Third, when it is your turn to receive Confirmation, you will walk forward to the Bishop with your chosen Sponsor. When you get to the Bishop, you will kneel on a kneeler that will be in front of him. Your sponsor should know your Confirmation name, and tell the Bishop what it is.
The Bishop will say: "(Saint name), be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit."
and your response is: "Amen."
The bishop will respond, "Peace be with you."
and you respond: "And with your Spirit."
After all candidates have been Confirmed, the Mass will continue as usual with the Presentation of the Gifts, Consecration, and distributio of Holy Communion.
Remember: If you or your parents have any questions about this, have your mom or dad e-mail Kate: kate.mcgrath@st-raphael-parish.org! I am happy to talk or answer any questions! Below though is a short video that gives us a visual for receiving Confirmation!