Confirmation is a sacrament of initiation, one of the three sacraments through which people become members of the Christian community. By the laying on of hands, anointing with chrism, and prayer, those already baptized are strengthened by the Holy Spirit in order that they may steadfastly profess the faith and faithfully live up to their profession. The candidates by this time have been nurtured by the parents and the parish, and now they must choose a mature adult to serve as an individual sponsor who will walk with the candidate in his or her preparation for Confirmation.

Confirmation Preparation

Confirmation preparation is also a two year preparation. Confirmation preparation normally begins at the age of 12 or 13. Confirmation 1 focuses on reviewing the overall foundations of the Catholic faith at a deeper level and on developing a mature prayer life. Confirmation 2 will include an in depth look at the Sacramental life of the Catholic faith and have several weeks focusing on Theology of the Body. Students in high school who are beyond the normal age of confirmation preparation who would like to receive this Sacrament will follow more the preparation for RCIA, but may be addressed on a case by case basis.

The date for Confirmation will not be listed in our calendar since it is set by the Bishop's office. It will be given to you after the start of classes.

Note: For any circumstances beyond the normal age of Sacramental Preparation, please contact the Director of Faith Formation. While we seek to be open and flexible towards individuals and their families, we expect that parents to be involved in the preparation of their students for the sacraments regardless of when their students are preparing, but more so when the students are beyond the normal age of preparation. Most important though, it is a joy, honor, and privilege to prepare students for the Sacraments and the staff and volunteers at St. Philip seek to do just that along with helping each person to know, love, and serve God in a deep and profound way.

Monica Vasquez, Director Religious Education or email mvasquez@stphilipbc.org.