Confirmation

"Baptism, the Eucharist, and Confirmation together constitute the "sacraments of Christian initiation," whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For "by 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

In Confirmation, the second Sacrament of Initiation, we are anointed with the Holy Spirit to go out to bear witness to God's love by word and example. By Confirmation we complete Baptism and become full members of the Catholic Church.

Just as the mind and body grows, so also must the soul grow in the life of grace. Confirmation builds upon the seed of faith planted in baptism and is nourished by a committed life of faith expressed in frequent Confession and the Holy Eucharist.

During Confirmation, the focus is on the Holy Spirit, who confirmed the Apostles on Pentecost and gave them courage to practise their faith. Catholics believe that the same Holy Spirit confirms Catholics during the sacrament of Confirmation and gives them the same gifts.

Traditionally, the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude (courage), knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. These gifts are supernatural graces given to the soul. The fruits of the Holy Spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, trustfulness, gentleness and self-control. Modesty, chastity and longanimity are also fruits of the Spirit. These are poured out, anew, upon us in Confirmation.

For our young people, Confirmation is offered for them to consider from around year 6 (age 10+) and preparation for the Sacrament accompanies them over several months. Again, regular participation in the Parish Sunday Mass is expected of the young person and their families, and is the best place to start to encounter the God who desires to pour His life into these young people.

For Adults, both Catholics, who for whatever reason, have not yet been Confirmed or those not yet Baptised you will be accompanied by Fr Etienne on a course sharing our Catholic Faith and seeking to bring answer to some of your curious questions.

Please keep an eye on the Parish Newsletter for an update on when the next preparation programme is announced in the Parish.

Adults enquiring, come and speak to Fr Etienne after Sunday Mass and or email him at: All enquiries to:

stjohnxxiii.preston@lrcd.org.uk - young persons preparation

daniel.etienne@lrcd.org.uk - adults