Confirmation
Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Christian Initiation, deeply linked with Baptism and the Eucharist. Together, they form one unified journey that inserts us into Christ’s life, death and resurrection, making us new in the Church.
The word “Confirmation” points to a strengthening of baptismal grace. Through the anointing with sacred Chrism, we are sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and conformed more deeply to Christ—the true “Anointed One.” As Pope Francis explains, this Sacrament “gives us a special strength... to confess the name of Christ boldly, and never to be ashamed of his Cross” (cf. CCC 1303).
Confirmation also deepens our bond with the Church and prepares us to live out our faith with courage and love. It is God’s work, not ours—God molds us through the Holy Spirit, shaping us in the image of His Son.
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit—Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety and Fear of the Lord—are poured into our lives through Confirmation. When we welcome these gifts, Christ begins to act in us: praying, forgiving, consoling, serving and building peace through us.
Pope Francis urges us not to overlook this vital step. If young people have not yet been confirmed, we must do all we can to help them complete their Christian initiation. It is through Confirmation that Christ fully takes shape in their lives—and in ours.
(based on Pope Francis, General Audience, 29 January 2014)
Confirmation
Registration
Our 2024-2025 Sacrament preparation sessions have concluded. Congratulations to all the young people of our parish who were Confirmed on May 28th! Registration dates for our 2025-2026 Sacrament preparation sessions will be announced in our parish bulletin and on our social media.
Confirmation
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should My child receive the sacrament of confirmation?
A child is invited to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation when they are in Grade 6 or older. The suggested age is only a guideline. If parents feel that their child is not yet ready to further their faith formation, they are encouraged to undergo preparations for the Sacrament of Confirmation when they are more mature and more sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Children must be baptised into the Roman Catholic Church, have celebrated their First Reconciliation and First Eucharist, and be enrolled in an ongoing program of catechesis (either catechism classes or in a Catholic school).
What preparation is required for my child to be confirmed?
Preparation for confirmation includes at least 10 hours of instruction time, 10 hours of volunteer service, attendance at a full-day retreat and completion of basic assignments. Instruction time is usually divided into 7-8 sessions depending on time constraints throughout the year.
Are there requirements of the parents who wish to have their child confirmed?
Some preparation sessions require the attendance of both parent. Parents must ensure that their child is preparing for Confirmation throughout their daily lives, by practicing and applying the things they've learned during the sessions into their everyday lives. If time constraints are an issue, parents can speak with our Sacrament preparation coordinator to make alternative arrangements.
When are confirmation preparation sessions?
Sacrament preparation sessions take place Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. After you have registered your child for the program, our Sacrament Preparation Coordinator will send you the 2024/2025 Sacrament preparation schedule.
Are there costs associated with sacrament preparation?
Yes. Costs will cover instructional materials.