Sacrament of Confirmation

Sacraments of Initiation

Sacrament of Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Christian Initiation in the Catholic Church, alongside Baptism and the Eucharist.

It strengthens and deepens the grace received at Baptism, empowering the recipient to live as a mature disciple of Christ.

Key Teachings on Confirmation in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC):

Nature and Purpose of Confirmation
- Confirmation perfects the grace of Baptism, unites the recipient more firmly to Christ, and strengthens their bond with the Church (CCC 1285).
- It equips the faithful with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to live as witnesses of Christ in word and action (CCC 1303).

The Role of the Holy Spirit
- The sacrament involves the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which strengthens the recipient with the seven gifts: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord (CCC 1303, 1831).

Essential Rite of Confirmation
- The bishop (or a delegated priest) lays hands on the candidate, anoints them with sacred chrism (blessed oil), and says:
  - “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
- This anointing signifies the sealing of the Holy Spirit and the commissioning of the individual as a witness of Christ (CCC 1294-1295).

Effects of Confirmation
- It increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in the recipient (CCC 1303).
- It roots the recipient more deeply in their identity as a child of God and strengthens their connection to the Church.
- It gives the grace to spread and defend the faith courageously (CCC 1303).

Who Can Receive Confirmation?
- Any baptized person not yet confirmed can and should receive the sacrament (CCC 1306).
- The candidate must be in a state of grace and prepared to take on the responsibilities of a mature Christian life (CCC 1310).

Minister of Confirmation
- The ordinary minister is the bishop, symbolizing the connection to the apostolic Church. In some cases, a priest may administer the sacrament with proper authorization (CCC 1312-1313).

Scriptural Basis
- The sacrament is rooted in Scripture, particularly in the events of Pentecost, where the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles (Acts 2:1-4).
- Jesus promised the Holy Spirit to His disciples, empowering them to be His witnesses (John 14:16-17; Acts 1:8).

Confirmation is a sacrament that deepens the grace of Baptism and empowers Catholics to live their faith boldly. It seals the recipient with the Holy Spirit, strengthening their relationship with God and the Church while equipping them to share and defend the faith in their daily lives.

Religious Education

Religious Education 2026-2027 Classes will be held on Sunday Mornings from 8:40 AM – 9:55 AM at Our Lady Star of the Sea School, starting September 20, 2026, through May 2, 2027.

Religious Education students are encouraged to attend Mass following class. Parents are encouraged to pray the rosary at 9:30 am before the 10:00 am Mass at OLSS Church.

Please come to the parish office to sign up for Religious Education.

Questions: Jessica Grabania, PCL@accatholic.org or 609-345-1878 ext. 24.

The application form, which you can pick up at the Parish office, should be fully completed.
Bring a copy of your child/children’s baptismal certificate(s).
Pay the full tuition cost: regular tuition costs for Religious Education is $170.00 which may vary for some cases; $85.00 per child for continuing education.

Christian Initiation For Adults

The OCIA (Order of Christian Initiation of Adults) is the process by which adults are initiated into the Catholic Church. It is a journey of faith and conversion that includes several stages, culminating in the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist.

Key Aspects of OCIA:

Purpose
- OCIA is designed for adults who:
- Have never been baptized and wish to become Catholic.
- Were baptized in another Christian tradition and want to join the Catholic Church.
- Were baptized Catholic but did not receive further sacraments or formation.

Stages of OCIA

Pre-Catechumenate (Inquiry):
- A period of exploration and initial faith formation. Participants learn the basics of the Catholic faith and discern their desire to continue.
Catechumenate:
- A formal period of instruction and spiritual growth. Catechumens (unbaptized individuals) and candidates (those already baptized) learn about Scripture, Church teachings, and the sacraments.
Purification and Enlightenment:
- This period, often during Lent, is a time of spiritual preparation, prayer, and reflection, leading up to the Easter Vigil.
Sacraments of Initiation:
- At the Easter Vigil, catechumens are baptized, confirmed, and receive the Eucharist. Candidates may receive Confirmation and the Eucharist.
Mystagogy:
- After Easter, the newly initiated continue to grow in their faith and understanding of the Church’s life and mission.
Liturgical and Communal Nature
- RCIA involves the parish community through prayers, rites, and support. It emphasizes the communal aspect of faith and the importance of the Church as the Body of Christ.
Biblical and Theological Foundation
- The process reflects the early Church’s practice of forming disciples and welcoming new members into the faith community (e.g., Acts 2:41-42).

Please come to the parish office to sign up for OCIA.

Questions: Jessica Grabania, PCL@accatholic.org or 609-345-1878 ext. 24. (se habla Español)

Sacrament of Confirmation

Sacraments of Initiation