The Sacrament of Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation completes Baptism and it empowers us for our mission and vocation. We first receive the Spirit at Baptism, and then are "sealed" by the Spirit in a special way in Confirmation, which is the "completion of baptismal grace"
(CCC 1285)
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is one of the seven sacraments and is known as a Sacrament of Initiation, along with Baptism and Eucharist. It’s seen as the completion of Baptism, where a baptized person is "confirmed" or strengthened in their faith. Through Confirmation, Catholics receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit to deepen their relationship with God and to strengthen them to live as a committed follower of Christ.
When do Catholics receive Confirmation?
In the Roman Catholic Church, Confirmation is typically received during the teenage years, although the exact age varies by diocese. At St. Louis Catholic Church, formation and reception happen during the 10th grade of school.
Adults who were baptized Catholic but never confirmed can also prepare to receive the sacrament via OCIA (Order of Catholic Initiation of Adults). Please see the OCIA/CICA page of our website for more information.
What Happens at Confirmation?
During Confirmation, the bishop—or in certain circumstances a priest—lays hands upon the candidates and anoints each person on the forehead with Sacred Chrism, a blessed and consecrated oil.
The candidate is told:
“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
The anointing represents the seal of the Holy Spirit and a deeper commitment to living as a disciple of Christ.
Preparing for Confirmation
In preparation for receiving the sacrament of Confirmation, Confirmation candidates should select a sponsor. The sponsor should be an adult Catholic that is in good standing with the Church and will serve as a spiritual guide throughout the candidate's life journey.
Confirmation candidates will also select a Confirmation Saint to be proclaimed during the annointing for each candidate. This Saint should be carefully selected and hold meaning for the person receiving the sacrament.