Confirmation

"If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you."  (John 14:15-17)
 

Teens prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation during 7th and 8th grade and celebrate it in the fall of their 9th grade year. Adults studying to become Catholic celebrate the sacrament at the Easter vigil. If you are an adult who has missed a sacrament or is interested in becoming Catholic, visit our Becoming Catholic page.

Teen preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation actually began when a child’s parent brings them forward for baptism. It continues through formation received in the home as well as completing Religious Education classes and the other Sacraments of Initiation (First Holy Communion and Reconciliation). Teens begin working on specific service and enrichment activities in seventh and eighth grade through our St. Joseph middle school youth group, FLOW (Following the Lord Our Way). They choose a sponsor who is an active, participating Catholic and who will partner with them in this preparation and continue to be a faith partner after confirmation.

Teen candidates will write a letter to the pastor explaining their desire for Confirmation and also express their understanding of the sacrament, and church teaching, through an interview in the spring of eighth grade. Teens also attend a retreat as part of their preparation; then, celebrate the sacrament in the fall of ninth grade.

Parents also play a role in a student's preparation for confirmation. This includes attending Mass as a family, modeling the Catholic faith (in word and deed), working on preparation assignments in the home and being involved in what is happening in their child’s religion classes and FLOW Youth Group activities, as well as attending parent meetings throughout the year. 

Enrollment begins in the spring prior to fall classes. Please call 248.693.9555 for more information.