Confirmation - St. Raymond Catholic Parish

Confirmation

Becoming a fully active member of God’s Family is a journey - a process of initiation involving the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation. The process allows you time to discover your faith, to become involved with the community of faith, and to know Jesus - the cornerstone of that faith.

From its very beginning, the Christian community welcomed new members through a special period of training during which the faith of newcomers could grow and mature until they were ready for full commitment to Jesus. The same dynamic occurred between Jesus and his Apostles. The newfound faith of the Apostles after they first responded to the call of Jesus was not the same as the firm and joyous faith of Pentecost. In fact, as Luke points out in Acts, not even witnessing the risen Christ on Easter was sufficient for the Apostles to grasp fully the message of Jesus. Only after their special encounter with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost could they proclaim Jesus as Lord to the Jerusalem crowds.

Confirmation is your personal Pentecost. It is the time in your life when the Father empowers you in a special way with the Holy Spirit. Though it is unlikely that your experience will be of tongues of fire and a violent wind, you will be anointed with Holy Chrism, marked with the sign of the cross, and the bishop will say to you, "Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit."

The Confirmation preparation process begins in September of freshman year and continues through junior year with the reception of the sacrament taking place during the Easter Season of junior year. Throughout the three year formation process candidates participate in weekly faith formation sessions, attend retreats and serve the community through various service and outreach projects. For further information please contact the St. Raymond Youth and Young Adult Ministries office. Click here for more information about Youth and Young Adult Ministries programs at St. Raymond’s.

AM I READY?

This sacrament should not be received lightly. That is why the members of God’s family take responsibility for preparing candidates for Confirmation. Your preparation should lead to a resounding YES! answer to each of the following questions.

Do you want to be a full member of God’s Family?

Do you understand and believe what the Church teaches?

Are you willing to confirm the promises of your baptism?

Are you willing to participate in the Eucharist and the other sacraments regularly?

Are you willing and able to be a living witness to Jesus Christ?

Are you willing and able to do your part of the work of serving and loving others?

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