The Gift of the Holy Spirit
Confirmation is a very special moment in your journey of faith. In this sacrament, God gives you the gift of the Holy Spirit in a deeper way, helping you to grow in faith and to live as a follower of Jesus.
In the Bible, after Jesus had returned to His Father, His friends were frightened and unsure of what to do. Then, at Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon them, filling them with courage, wisdom, and joy. They were no longer afraid but went out to share the Good News of Jesus with the world.
The same Holy Spirit is given to you in Confirmation. The Holy Spirit is always with you, helping you to make good choices, to care for others, and to grow in love, faith, and kindness each day.
Who Can Receive Confirmation?
Anyone who has been baptised in the Catholic Church and is ready to continue their journey of faith can receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
- Children are usually confirmed during Primary 7.
- Adults who have not yet been confirmed are warmly invited to prepare through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Your parish will be happy to provide more information.
Your Sponsor
Your sponsor is someone who stands beside you during your Confirmation. By placing a hand on your shoulder, they show that they will encourage and support you as you continue to grow in faith.
A sponsor is someone whose friendship, example, and prayers can help you throughout your Christian life.
A sponsor should:
- Be at least 16 years of age.
- Be a baptised and confirmed Catholic who has also received Holy Communion.
- Be someone who lives their faith with kindness and commitment.
- If appropriate, your Baptism sponsor may also be your Confirmation sponsor.
Choosing a Confirmation Name
Many young people choose the name of a saint when they are confirmed.
Saints were ordinary people who trusted God in extraordinary ways. By choosing the name of a saint, you are asking them to pray for you and to inspire you as you continue your own journey.
The Sacred Chrism
During the ceremony, the Bishop anoints your forehead with the Sacred Chrism, a fragrant oil blessed especially for the sacraments.
As the oil is placed on your forehead, the Bishop says:
“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
This beautiful moment reminds us that God’s Holy Spirit is always with you. The Spirit will guide you, strengthen you, and help you to live each day with faith, hope, courage, and love.
May your Confirmation be a joyful step on your journey with Christ, as you continue to discover God’s love and share that love with those around you.