Confirmation

In the Sacrament of Confirmation, the Apostles and the Bishops, who are their successors, hand on to the baptized the special gift of the Holy Spirit, promised by Christ the Lord and poured out upon the Apostles at Pentecost. Thus the initiation in the Christian life is completed so that believers are strengthened by power from Heaven, made true witnesses of Christ in word and deed, and bound more closely to the Church.” Decree of Pope Paul VI, 8/22/71 The rites, Rite of Confirmation p. 289

At St. John’s, Confirmation is usually received at the start of the 11th grade year, as diocesan norms indicate. However, any adult Catholic or one being received in the Church may also receive the sacrament. A class for an adult wishing to be confirmed is combined with our RCIA program.

PERTINENT INFORMATION:
Confirmation preparation for Columbus Catholic students happens primarily through their curriculum, but there is also a summer one-day retreat in partnership with Marshfield Faith Formation.  For Marshfield High students Confirmation preparation is offered through Marshfield Faith Formation.  Home school students should contact Marshfield Faith Formation for options.  

What happens at Confirmation? In the Sacrament of confirmation, the Apostles and the Bishops, who are their successors, hand on to the baptized the special gift of the Holy Spirit, promised by Christ the Lord and poured out upon the Apostles at Pentecost.  Thus the initiation in the Christian life is completed so that believers are strengthened by power from Heaven, made true witnesses of Christ in word and deed, and bound more closely to the Church.”
Decree of Pope Paul VI, 8/22/71  The rites, Rite of Confirmation p. 289

The Role of PARENTS:     “The initiation of children (youth) into the Sacramental life is for the most part the responsibility and concern of Christian parents.  They are to form and gradually increase a spirit of faith in their children, and, with the help of catechetical institutions, prepare them for the fruitful reception of the Sacraments of Confirmation and Eucharist.  The role of the parents is also expressed by their active participation in the celebration of the Sacraments.” The Rites, p. 298

Parents will be expected to aid their son/daughter in preparing for the Sacraments of Confirmation.

  • Please pray with/for your son or daughter and all of the other candidates.
  • Discuss with your son or daughter the Sacrament of Confirmation, their willingness to devote themselves to preparation for the Sacrament.
  • Make your life as a Catholic an example for your son or daughter, and be available to assist in his/her preparation by offering your full support, (forms, serving as an advisor or chaperone, etc.).
  • Be aware of the Confirmation program guidelines and feel free to contact me with your comments, questions, etc.
  • Help your daughter/son choose a Confirmation name and sponsor.

The role of CANDIDATES:  This can be one of the most exciting times along your faith journey!  For this to happen, be open to the Holy Spirit by actively participating in all the sessions.   You will also be participating in a retreat which immerses you into Christ and His Church, opportunities to live out the Works of Mercy, and growing in your knowledge and hopefully love for Christ.

The role of the SPONSORS:  A sponsor has the privilege of guiding the candidate to a closer relationship with Christ and the Church he founded—the Roman Catholic Church. He or she must belong to the Catholic Church and have been initiated in the three Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist, be 16 years of age and may not be a parent.
If you wish, one of your Baptismal sponsors may be chosen to be your Confirmation sponsor, provided a Christian relationship exists.  This situation is most appropriate, and would stress the Sacraments of Initiation, and the relationship between Baptism and Confirmation.
Catechism of the Catholic Church #1311; Code of Canon Law, , # 893    

Please make a commitment to PRAY DAILY  for your candidate!

David Alcott   
Director of Faith Formation
(715) 384-3252 x6