“When the day of Pentecost came it found them gathered in one place. Suddenly from up in the sky there came a noise like a strong, driving wind which was heard all through the house where they were seated. Tongues of fire appeared, which parted and came to rest on each of them. All were filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:1-4).
Confirmation (‘strengthening’) completes the initiation (entry) of Baptism, with prayer for the gift of the Holy Spirit who is poured out upon us, to fortify our Faith and deepen our Christian commitment. The Gift and grace of the Spirit dwelling within us moves us from being simply Disciples, followers, of Christ, to being also Apostles of Christ, proclaiming his Good News and making it happen by sharing in his work. In this way Confirmation is a sacrament of ongoing conversion, and a sacrament of mature and adult faith.
Adults are usually Confirmed immediately after Baptism to share then in Communion in the Body of Christ in the assembly of the Church. This triple sacrament of Initiation is usually celebrated on Easter Night.
Young People who have been baptized as infants in the faith of their parents are usually Confirmed by the Bishop in their early teens. If you feel you are ready and wanting to be confirmed in your faith and practice next time the Parish invites the Bishop to celebrate the Sacrament, please keep an eye on the newsletter for the announcement of the parish preparation, which usually starts early in the new year.
Why Be Confirmed?
- Confirmation empowers and celebrates our adult faith. It strengthens our growth in Christ.
- Confirmed Christians are enabled to take to take a full and active part in the life of the Church.
- They may and should take part and minister at Mass each Sunday in whatever role the Parish calls them to and their talents suit them for.
- They can and ought to take an active part in the life of their Parish and their community, again according to their talents and gifts:- The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is the source and strength of their Christian life and vocation, in family or single life, in service and profession, in citizenship and civic responsibility, in social and in cultural life.
For more information, please speak with Father John at the parish.
