What is the Sacrament of Confirmation

FAQ: What Is the Sacrament of Confirmation?

1. What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is a Catholic sacrament that strengthens the baptized with the Holy Spirit, sealing their commitment to Christ and the Church (CCC 1285).

2. Why do Catholics receive Confirmation?

It completes Baptism, empowering recipients with the Spirit’s gifts for a mature Christian life. It’s a personal “yes” to faith (CCC 1306-1308).

3. What happens during Confirmation?

A bishop (or delegated priest) anoints the forehead with chrism oil, lays hands on the candidate, and says, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” It’s a public affirmation of faith, often with a sponsor present (CCC 1299-1300).

4. Who can receive Confirmation?

Baptized Catholics who’ve reached the “age of reason” (around 7) and prepared through catechesis can receive it. In the West, it’s often delayed to adolescence for fuller understanding (CCC 1307).

5. What are the gifts of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation?

The seven gifts are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. They equip us to live out our faith boldly (CCC 1831).

6. Is Confirmation required?

It’s not mandatory for salvation but is one of the three sacraments of initiation (with Baptism and Eucharist), strongly encouraged for full participation in the Church. It deepens grace received at Baptism (CCC 1306).

7. Why is a sponsor involved?

A sponsor, a confirmed Catholic in good standing, supports the candidate’s faith journey, standing as a witness during the rite. They model Christian living and often help choose a confirmation name (CCC 1311).

8. What’s the history of Confirmation?

Rooted in Acts 8:14-17, where apostles laid hands on the baptized for the Spirit, it evolved from a single rite with Baptism to a separate sacrament by the Middle Ages. Today’s form reflects centuries of tradition (CCC 1289-1292).

9. How does Confirmation affect daily life?

It strengthens Catholics to witness Christ in the world, giving courage to share faith, serve others, and resist temptation. The Spirit’s gifts guide decisions, from small acts of kindness to big moral choices. It’s a lifelong call to be “soldiers of Christ,” as early Church Fathers put it, active in building God’s kingdom (CCC 1303-1304).

10. Where can I learn more?

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1285-1321) is the go-to source, alongside Scripture like Acts 8 and 1 Corinthians 12 on the Spirit’s gifts. Books like The Sacraments by Louis Evely or your parish’s confirmation program offer practical insights.