Do we take the Sacrament of Confirmation seriously?

It is no secret that many young people receive the Sacrament of Confirmation and see it as a “passing out” or a “graduation” from the Church. This reveals our poor faith formation and understanding of the Sacrament. It also says something about our commitment and passion for faith and Jesus.

We need to remind ourselves where the Sacrament comes from. It has roots in the early Christian community and the practices described in the New Testament, particularly in the Acts of the Apostles, where the Apostles laid hands on believers who had already been baptised to receive the Holy Spirit. Over time, the Church formalised this practice into a distinct sacrament.

Originally, Confirmation was closely connected with Baptism and was often administered simultaneously, especially when adults were initiated into the Church. As Christianity spread and infant baptism became more common, Confirmation evolved into a separate rite administered by a bishop. This separation occurred around the early Middle Ages to ensure that the Sacrament would be conferred with full understanding and personal commitment by the confirmands.

Theologically, Confirmation is understood as the Sacrament that strengthens and deepens the grace received at Baptism. It is believed to provide spiritual strengthening, or “sealing,” with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These gifts are wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.  Confirmation marks a maturing of one’s faith, a deepening relationship with God, and an increased responsibility to live out that faith actively. It is often seen as a personal renewal of one’s baptismal vows and commitment to the mission of the Church.

Receiving Confirmation signifies that a Catholic has reached a certain level of maturity in their faith, even if this does not necessarily correspond to a particular age. Confirmed people are called to take on greater responsibility in the Church and their spiritual life.

Responsibilities include:

1. Active Participation: Engage more fully in the life and mission of the Church, including attending Mass regularly and participating in Church activities.
2. Witnessing to Faith: Act as witnesses to Christ in how they live their lives, showing integrity, charity, and love, and being ready to explain their faith to others.
3. Spiritual Growth: Continue to seek a deeper understanding of the faith through prayer, study, and participation in the sacraments.
4. Service to Others: Commit to serving others, using the gifts of the Holy Spirit to benefit the community and the Church.

Confirmation is both a gift and a calling, equipping individuals with the Holy Spirit to fulfil their roles as active members of the Church community.

It is not a graduation ceremony but a public commitment to Jesus and his Church. If we do not intend what the Church intends, then we should probably not receive or administer this Sacrament. Maybe we should ask ourselves what we, as a community, can do to make sure that our young people get the best faith formation we can give so that they become mature and responsibility members of the Christian community.

Fr. Russell Pollitt SJ