Confirmation

🕊️ What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is the completion of Baptism.
In this sacrament, we are sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit, strengthening us to live out our faith boldly and lovingly. It confirms and deepens the grace first received at Baptism and calls us to active discipleship.

🌿 What happens during the Sacrament of Confirmation?

The Bishop (or his delegate) anoints each candidate with the Sacred Chrism Oil, saying:

“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Through this sacred anointing and the laying on of hands, we are strengthened by the Holy Spirit’s seven gifts — wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.

👧🧑 Who can receive Confirmation?

Confirmation is usually received by baptized Catholics in Grade 7 or 8, following a period of preparation through parish catechesis or Catholic school programs.
Adults who have not been confirmed may also prepare for the sacrament through the RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) process.

🏫 How do I register for Confirmation?

Parents of children seeking Confirmation are invited to contact the Parish Office to register and receive information about preparation sessions.
Please call 📞 (905) 768-5726 or email 📧 stmarystann@saintcd.com at least three months in advance of the celebration.

Preparation involves parish meetings, prayer, and active participation at Sunday Mass.

🙌 Why is Confirmation important?

• It strengthens our bond with Christ and the Church.

• It completes our initiation into the Catholic faith (Baptism → Confirmation → Eucharist).

• It calls us to serve and witness to Christ through our words and actions.

• It gives us the power and courage to live our faith in the world.

🕯️ What are the requirements for Confirmation?

• The candidate must be baptized and have received First Communion.

• The candidate should participate regularly in Mass and preparation sessions.

• A sponsor is chosen who is a confirmed Catholic, over 16 years of age, and actively living the faith.

👨‍👩‍👧 What is the role of parents and sponsors?

Parents are the first teachers of faith. They guide, support, and encourage their children during preparation.
Sponsors walk with the candidate as a spiritual mentor, offering encouragement and prayer both before and after the sacrament.

🕊️ How should candidates prepare spiritually?

• Pray daily to the Holy Spirit for guidance

• Attend Sunday Mass faithfully

• Celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation before Confirmation

• Participate fully in preparation sessions

• Live out acts of kindness and service in the community

📅 When is Confirmation celebrated?

At St. Mary’s Parish, Confirmation is typically celebrated once every two years, presided over by the Bishop of St. Catharines or his delegate.
Dates are announced through the parish bulletin, school, and website updates.

✝️ Adults Seeking Confirmation

Adults who wish to complete their Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist) are invited to join the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
Please contact the parish office for details — we would be happy to walk with you on your faith journey.