Receiving the Holy Spirit
The Sacrament of Confirmation is the second of the three sacraments of initiation because, historically, it was administered immediately after the Sacrament of Baptism. Confirmation in the early church was the confirming of the baptism of catechumens by the bishop who sometimes took several years to visit all his churches. Rather than wait for the bishop to baptize catechumens, deacons were permitted to baptize them to start their initiation into the Catholic Church. Deacons are still able to baptize and in many parishes have taken on that duty, aiding their pastors. Confirmation perfects our baptism and brings us the graces of the Holy Spirit that were granted to the Apostles on Pentecost Sunday, the birthday of the Church.
Confirmation for youth candidates is usually celebrated at the end of grade 9. A two year preparation program is required. Weekly attendance at Mass is mandatory.
To receive more information, please contact:
Meghan Cambridge, Director of Religious Education, at 860-739-9722 ext. 236
