Confirmation (7th & 8th Grade)
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Overview
Confirmation is the final Sacrament of Initiation in the Catholic Church. Through this sacrament, young people are sealed with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and strengthened to live as mature, active members of the Church.
At Our Lady of Sorrows - St. Anthony Parish, Confirmation preparation is a two-year process:
Year I (7th Grade): Lays the foundation for understanding faith, discipleship, and the Holy Spirit.
Year II (8th Grade): Deepens the student’s relationship with Christ and prepares them to receive the sacrament.
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Preparation Process
Candidates grow in faith through regular Religious Education classes, parish activities, service, and prayer. Preparation includes:
Learning about the Holy Spirit and the meaning of Confirmation.
Attending required meetings, retreats, and rehearsals.
Participating in parish life and regular Mass attendance.
Completing assigned forms, reflections, and projects.
Working closely with their parents and sponsors to strengthen their faith journey.
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Year I: 7th Grade
Students begin the Confirmation journey by exploring what it means to live as a disciple of Jesus and to be guided by the Holy Spirit.
They will:
Reflect on their Baptismal promises.
Learn about the Gifts and Fruits of the Holy Spirit.
Begin service projects within the parish or community.
Choose a sponsor who will walk with them in faith.
Explore the lives of the saints and begin thinking about their Confirmation name.
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Year II: 8th Grade
The second year focuses on preparation to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and to live as a witness of faith in daily life.
Students will:
Complete their service reflections.
Write a Christian Autobiography and a Saint Name Report describing their chosen patron saint.
Participate in a Confirmation Retreat for prayer and reflection.
Take part in interviews with staff or clergy to discuss their readiness.
Attend practice and the Confirmation Mass, typically held in the spring.
See the Confirmation Year II Handbook below for more details.
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What to Expect
Key gatherings and requirements are announced annually through email and on the What's Happening page.
Families can generally expect:Parent & Candidate Orientation Meeting (early fall)
Retreat Day (spring)
Service Projects & Penance Service (during Lent)
Confirmation Practice (week before the Mass)
Confirmation Liturgy (spring, typically at St. Anthony Church)
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Sponsor Requirements
Sponsors play an important role in guiding candidates through prayer, conversation, and example of Christian living.
Sponsors must:
Lead a life in harmony with the Catholic faith
Be at least 16 years old.
Be a practicing Catholic who has received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation.
Not be a parent of the candidate
(If married) in a valid Catholic marriage
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Saint Name Selection
Each candidate chooses a Confirmation name based on a saint whose life inspires them.
Students must write a short report including:Facts about the saint’s life and faith.
Reasons for choosing this saint.
How they hope to follow the saint’s example
See the Confirmation Saint Name Report Instructions below for full details.
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Service Hours
Service is an essential part of preparing for Confirmation. Through serving others, candidates put their faith into action and live out the Gospel message of love and compassion.
Each student is asked to complete a minimum of (20) hours of service over the two-year preparation period. These hours may include parish, school, or community activities that reflect the values of Christian service.
Examples of acceptable service:
Assisting at parish events or liturgies
Helping younger students with Religious Education or Vacation Bible Camp
Participating in food, clothing, or toy drives
Visiting or writing to the sick, elderly, or homebound
Volunteering at local charities or community organizations
Guidelines:
At least part of your service should be completed within the parish community.
Service should not be done for pay or for a family business.
Each candidate must record hours and reflections in the Service Booklet and submit it by the assigned due date.
Parents and sponsors are encouraged to serve alongside the candidates when possible.
Service helps candidates recognize the presence of Christ in others and prepares them to live as disciples in the world.
See the Confirmation Service Booklet below for full details and reflection forms.
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Important Reminders
Students must complete two consecutive years of Religious Education to receive Confirmation.
Regular Mass attendance and participation in parish life are required.
Attendance at all scheduled meetings, retreats, and practices is mandatory.
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Forms & Documents: