What is the Sacrament of Confirmation?

The Sacrament of Confirmation completes the process of Christian initiation.  Without it, a baptized Christian remains, in a sense, at the level of a spiritual child.  You can think of Confirmation analogously as the period of puberty in the natural order.  Through this sacrament, a baptized Christian receives the strengthening of the Holy Spirit to mature into spiritual adulthood, resist temptations to sin, and courageously spread the Gospel of Jesus. 

Is it really that important to be confirmed?

We must not neglect or undervalue this sacrament!  Indeed, the Catechism teaches that, "Baptism, the Eucharist, and the sacrament of Confirmation together constitute the 'sacraments of Christian initiation,' whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace.  For 'by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed.'"  [CCC 1285]

To become a stronger and more faithful Catholic, therefore, one should make an effort to receive the graces and privileges that come from this Sacrament with mindful reverence and devotion as soon as possible.

Where can I get more information on Confirmation?

Click on the adjacent link above or here for a biblical defense of Confirmation.  You can also read the teachings of the Church Fathers on the subject, or read more about it in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

How can someone be confirmed at St. Catherine Parish:

If you are teenager who wishes to get confirmed, please click here.

If you are a baptized adult who wishes to be confirmed and you have received 1st Communion, please click here.

If you are a baptized adult but you have not received 1st Communion, you can to join the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults so you can receive both Holy Communion and Confirmation.  Click here for more information.