The Sacrament of Confirmation confirms the Spirit we have received in Baptism. It also confirms our commitment to follow Jesus.
The Holy Spirit has a significant role in Scripture. Jesus was conceived through the power of the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:26-38), received the Holy Spirit in Baptism (Luke 3:22), and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness (Luke 4:1). When he returned to Galilee, he preached in the Nazareth synagogue, choosing the following words from Isaiah - "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me (Luke 4:18-19) - to describe his mission. Later, he promised his disciples that the Father would give them an Advocate, the Holy Spirit, to teach them and remind them of Jesus and his words (John 14:26). The Holy Spirit is, therefore, the gift of Jesus to his original followers, and to us.
In the Sacrament of Confirmation, we increase and deepen the grace we have received at Baptism, and are united more closely to Christ and his Church. We are given the strength we need to share Jesus's mission in our own unique way as a child of God.
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The gifts of the Holy Spirit are poured out at Confirmation. The prophet Isaiah describes them as the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and courage, the spirit of knowledge and piety, the spirit of the fear of the Lord (11:2).
These gifts each have a special purpose. Wisdom opens us to hear what Jesus is saying about God and about ourselves. Understanding opens us to comprehend the meaning of truth in our lives. Right Judgement, or Counsel, opens us to Jesus's Spirit guiding our decisions and helping us respond in a way that is true to ourselves and responsive to grace. Knowledge opens us to understand truth more easily and more deeply. Courage helps us to trust God and His grace even in situations where we are afraid. Piety gives is the grace to know and worship God, and to connect with others as brothers and sisters. Fear of the Lord helps us to be aware of God's presence with us, filling us with awe and wonder.
The Sacrament of Confirmation
The Sacrament of Confirmation is usually celebrated by the Bishop and, like Baptism, can never be repeated. During the Sacrament, the bishop lays his hands on the person being confirmed. This ancient gesture is a symbol of the passing of God's spirit.
The person being confirmed is also anointed with Chrism. This holy oil symbolises consecration to Christ, and our role in continuing his mission. As the person is anointed with oil, they are forever signed with a seal that connects them to the Holy Spirit.
To enrol your child for Confirmation please see the Children’s’ Sacramental Program page.