Hello Families and Confirmation Candidates.

Confirmation: A Brief History

In the early Church, when infant baptism became the norm, children were also confirmed at the same time. However, in 412 AD, Pope Innocent I mandated that Confirmation could only be performed by a bishop, not by the local priest. Since bishops were responsible for large territories and could only visit remote villages every few years, baptized infants often had to wait several years before being confirmed. This delay led to the separation of Baptism and Confirmation as distinct sacraments.

We want our teens to understand that Confirmation is not something they have to do; rather, it's a privilege—they get to be Confirmed. The Catechism teaches us that what they truly receive in Confirmation is the Holy Spirit. This sacrament transforms them from curious followers into fellow missionaries for Christ.

Parents, sponsors, and everyone who influences the teen's life play an essential role in this journey. Even the parish community has a responsibility to pray for and support them through the sacrament. Ultimately, we believe that in this process, who they know—their relationship with Christ and the community—is more important than simply what they know. Small groups, retreats, and conferences are vital components of this experience, helping to foster those meaningful connections.

Please fill out the questionnaire to begin your journey.

Confirmation Candidate Essay Instructions:

Please choose one (1) of the following questions and write a 250-500 word essay. Your essay should be personally written and submitted along with all other required paperwork to the office. You will be asked to discuss your answer during your interview. These questions might prompt you to reflect in ways you haven’t before—just be honest and authentic in your response.

What kind of Christian man or woman do you envision becoming in the future? (Consider the characteristics and lifestyle you aspire to. What is most important to you? What do you see as your mission in life?)
or

What steps do you need to take to grow closer to God? (Reflect on where you are right now in your spiritual journey and what you feel might be preventing you from fully discovering and following Christ.)

Parent's Essay Instructions:

Please choose one (1) of the following questions and write a 250-500 word essay. The purpose of this essay is to help us understand how your intentions for this sacrament align with those of your teen. Be honest and genuine in your response. Remember, our goal is not just to teach your child, but to introduce them to Jesus and the life of the Church through the Holy Spirit. We are your partners in this journey—you, as the primary teacher of the faith, and us, helping to administer this sacrament.

In what specific ways have you shared with your teen the importance of this sacrament?
or

What is your hope or vision for your child after he or she receives this sacrament?

What are the Requirements for a Sponsor?

A Confirmation sponsor must be a confirmed, practicing Catholic. While a parent cannot serve as a sponsor, a grandparent or godparent is eligible. The sponsor should be someone the candidate trusts for guidance in faith, advice, and direction. Although family members or close family friends are popular choices, we also recommend considering small group leaders or ministry leaders. Ultimately, the decision is up to the candidate.

What Does a Sponsor Do During Preparation?

A sponsor’s role includes praying for the candidate and regularly checking in on their preparation. Sponsors are encouraged to take the candidate out for conversations, answering any questions they may have and discussing what they are discovering in their faith journey. Sponsors will also be asked to attend some classes, participate in a practice session, and be present at the final ceremony in the Spring (specific dates will be provided once they are issued by the Bishop's office in the new year).

What Are the Requirements for a Confirmation Name?

To highlight the close relationship between Confirmation and Baptism, candidates are encouraged to retain their baptismal name (preferred). However, if they wish to choose a special Confirmation name, it should be the name of a recognized saint of the Church or a person from Scripture.

Teen:  

Thank you for taking the time to discern a deeper commitment to your relationship with God. We hope that through this process you deep in your relationship with God, connect with other believers, discover your gifts and talents, grow in your faith, and see what an impact you can have on the church, the community, and the world.

By signing the bottom of this form, I commit to:

• Deepening my relationship with God and the church by fully participating in the preparation, set forth by St Charles and The Gathering Youth Ministry, including the retreat, and regularly attending Mass, Youth Group, and Confirmation meetings (2nd year).

• Meeting with my confirmation sponsor (2nd year candidates only), who will guide me through the resources, the curriculum, and steps that will help me in the development of spiritual habits

• Attending mass on the weekends

• Taking the next step, in my faith, whether that is participation in a season of small groups, ministry, or missions , and;

• Completing a final reflection, letter to the Cardinal and the Director of Youth Ministry

By signing this commitment form, I fully understand and agree to all the guidelines set forth by Saint Charles to the best of my abilities.

Parents:

As a parent, I understand by signing this commitment form that I agree with, and fully understand all the guidelines of procedure set forth by St Charles and The Gathering Youth Ministry. I also understand that if my child does not fulfill each commitment, the date on which he or she is confirmed might be delayed.