THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
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.
[Catechism of the Catholic Church #1285]
Confirmation is “necessary for the completion of Baptismal grace.” Early Christians would not have recognized Baptism and Confirmation as two different sacraments, but over time, they have become separated in celebration while still deeply united as an expression and celebration of God’s grace.
As Catholics, we know that Confirmation is not a graduation from faith, but, rather a renewed beginning to continue to live and learn how to be an active disciple — a participant in the life of Christ, Our Lord.
At Divine Mercy Parish, Confirmation is currently celebrated every two years for students in 9th grade and older. Preparation for the sacrament begins at Baptism and accelerates in 8th Grade, with formal “immediate preparation” scheduled in the year before the planned Celebration. The next celebration for our parish will be scheduled during the Easter season.
