This article explains the purpose of Confirmation, how to prepare candidates, what the service involves, and how it can be conducted in both parish and school settings. It includes expectations for the liturgy, the bishop’s involvement, and follow-up.
While Baptism is the first rite of Christian initiation, Confirmation still holds real value. It’s a key moment for personal faith, especially for young people, where they can make their
public confession of faith and “turn to Christ.”
In recent years, we’ve underestimated its role. We don’t need to go back to the days of massConfirmations, but we do need to honour the power of this sacrament and make it meaningful.
There are as many courses for preparation as every group is different. The content is important, butso is the learning environment. What matters most is creating a learning environment where candidates take initiative and feel connected.
The process of preparation and the sacrament itself should strengthen the relationship
between the candidates and the community of faith. It’s best if the confirming bishop
meets the candidates weeks or days before the service, preferably in an informal context.
The service should follow the appropriate liturgy from an approved rite. The text—along with additional notes that reflect how the bishop usually conducts a Confirmation—is available by email from the Registry. The liturgical colour is usually white.
Please check the readings (lections) with the bishop at least two weeks before the service. Usually, the readings set for the day are used. The bishop also prefers to receive a draft of the full service about one week in advance.
The names of those being confirmed should be recorded in the Parish Confirmation Register, with acopy sent to the bishop two weeks before the service. Each candidate should receive a confirmation card signed by the bishop. You can print confirmation certificates using the template in reference document 2.
The service should include as much personal involvement from the candidates as possible. For example:
Where possible, young people should be confirmed in their own faith community—usually their parish church. However, we recognise that for some, their main place of spiritual connection is within their school.
If the confirmation takes place at school, please make sure the parish priest (where the student worships or would normally attend) is informed and given the chance to take part in the preparation andliturgy. The parish should also follow up with the young person after the service.
Likewise, if a student from a church school is confirmed in their parish, it’s helpful to inform the school chaplain, who can offer encouragement and support afterwards.
