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Understanding the Sacrament of Confirmation

Sep 29, 2024

Notes on the Sacrament of Confirmation

Introduction

  • Topic: Confirmation in the Catholic Church
  • Presented by: Libby and Kai

What is a Sacrament?

  • Outward sign of inward grace
  • Physical elements (water, oil, bread) help encounter God both physically and metaphysically.
  • Confirmation is one of the three rites of initiation into the Catholic Church.

Three Primary Sacraments of Initiation

  1. Baptism
  2. Confirmation
  3. Holy Communion

Biblical Origins of Confirmation

  • Instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper.
  • Promised sending of the Holy Spirit.
  • Pentecost: Holy Spirit descended upon Apostles, empowering them.
  • Acts 1: Jesus promised Apostles they would receive power through the Holy Spirit.

The Ritual of Confirmation

  • Candidates (Confirmants) choose a sponsor as guide and model.
  • Sponsor must be a practicing Catholic, often a godparent.
  • Candidates may take a favorite saint's name to symbolize spiritual identity.

Ceremony Components:

  1. Renewal of Baptismal Vows
    • Confirmants reaffirm rejection of evil and embrace of faith.
  2. Laying on of Hands
    • Bishop calls down the power of the Holy Spirit.
  3. Anointing with Chrism
    • Oil blessed by the bishop; "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit."
  4. Bishop's Blessing
    • "Peace be with you" signifies unity among believers.

Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

  1. Wisdom
    • Understanding what is truly important.
  2. Understanding
    • Comprehending why things are important.
  3. Counsel (Right Judgment)
    • The ability to judge between right and wrong.
  4. Fortitude (Courage)
    • Persistence in doing the right thing.
  5. Knowledge
    • Understanding God and His plan for salvation.
  6. Piety (Reverence)
    • Recognizing God’s greatness and deserving love.
  7. Fear of the Lord
    • Having a right perspective of God and our place in creation.

Understanding the Gifts

  • The gifts are not overpowering; they are meant to be unwrapped and developed.
  • Example: Billy Graham’s perspective on patience.
  • Christian journey likened to a boat; natural virtues paired with the gifts of the Spirit accelerate spiritual growth.

Confirmation's Role in Spiritual Growth

  • Gifts are planted at baptism but grow dynamically through confirmation.
  • Emphasis on service and sharing experiences with others.
  • Apostles as examples of transformative power after receiving the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion

  • Confirmation is a public and deeper commitment to the Holy Spirit and the Church.
  • It benefits both individuals and the wider community, empowering the use of gifts for the greater good.
  • Presented by: Kai and Libby
  • "Confirmed."

Full transcript