General information about Confirmation

In our church, preparation to receive the sacrament lasts three years, in grades VI, VII and VIII. Candidates are required to attend formation meetings and participate in selected religious practices.

Administration of the sacrament

The sacrament of Confirmation is administered by anointing the forehead with chrism, which is done by laying a hand on the head, and by saying the words: “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” The priests accompanying the principal minister join him in extending their hands over all the candidates.

The entire rite has a twofold meaning. The laying on of hands upon those receiving Confirmation, performed by the bishop and concelebrating priests, expresses the biblical gesture by which the gift of the Holy Spirit is invoked in a way suited to the understanding of the Christian people.

The anointing with chrism and the accompanying words express the effects of the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through anointing with fragrant oil by the hand of the minister, the baptized person receives an indelible character, the seal of the Lord, together with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This gift conforms the person more perfectly to Christ and grants the grace to spread his “fragrance” among people (cf. 2 Cor 2:14).

The bishop consecrates the holy chrism during a Mass celebrated for this purpose, usually on Holy Thursday.

Confirmation sponsor

Each person being confirmed is accompanied by a sponsor, who guides them toward receiving the sacrament and presents them to the minister for anointing with chrism. Given today's pastoral circumstances, it is appropriate for the godparent, if able to attend, to serve also as the Confirmation sponsor. This more clearly highlights the connection between Baptism and Confirmation, and allows the godparent's duties to be fulfilled more effectively. However, a separate Confirmation sponsor may be chosen. As a rule, the sponsor for boys is a man, and for girls a woman.

Crosses for those being confirmed

Each person being confirmed receives a cross, which the minister blesses during the sacrament. The cross is intended as a sign of belonging to the Gospel of love that it symbolizes. During Confirmation, it is worn around the neck, and after the ceremony it should be given a worthy place in the confirmed person's room as a reminder of having received the sacrament.

Confession before Confirmation

Before receiving the sacrament of Confirmation, one must be in a state of sanctifying grace to avoid sacrilege. It is recommended that sponsors also receive Holy Communion during the ceremony. Those being confirmed receive Holy Communion from the minister, while the other faithful receive it from the other priests.

Attire for Confirmation

Both the person receiving the sacrament of Confirmation and the sponsor should dress respectfully, in keeping with the solemnity of the occasion, without brightly colored sweaters or dresses.