Confirmation

What Is Confirmation?

Confirmation is the Sacrament in which the baptized receive a special outpouring of the Holy Ghost.

It strengthens the grace received in Baptism and equips Christians to live and defend the faith.

Confirmation completes Christian initiation and deepens our union with Christ and His Church.

“But you shall receive the power of the Holy Ghost coming upon you, and you shall be witnesses unto me.” — Acts 1:8

Biblical Foundations

The roots of Confirmation are found throughout Sacred Scripture.

In the Old Testament, God’s Spirit empowered kings, prophets, and leaders.

Jesus Himself was anointed by the Holy Ghost at His Baptism.

After Christ’s Ascension, the Apostles received the Holy Ghost at Pentecost.

The Apostles also laid hands upon baptized believers so they might receive the fullness of the Spirit.

“Then they laid their hands upon them, and they received the Holy Ghost.” — Acts 8:17

What Happens in Confirmation?

Confirmation deepens and strengthens baptismal grace.

Through this Sacrament:

• We receive a special outpouring of the Holy Ghost.
• We are strengthened to live the Christian life.
• We are more firmly united to Christ.
• We are more closely united to the Church.
• We are empowered to witness to the Gospel.
• We receive an indelible spiritual mark.

Confirmation is not a graduation from the faith. It is a strengthening for lifelong discipleship.

The Gifts of the Holy Ghost

Confirmation strengthens the gifts of the Holy Ghost within us.

These gifts are:

• Wisdom
• Understanding
• Counsel
• Fortitude
• Knowledge
• Piety
• Fear of the Lord

These gifts help Christians follow God’s will and grow in holiness.

“And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom, and of understanding, the spirit of counsel, and of fortitude, the spirit of knowledge, and of godliness.” — Isaiah 11:2

The Role of the Bishop

The ordinary minister of Confirmation is a bishop.

This highlights the connection between the confirmed person and the Apostolic Church.

In some circumstances, a priest may administer Confirmation.

The bishop anoints the forehead with Sacred Chrism and says:

“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Ghost.”

Sacred Chrism

Sacred Chrism is consecrated oil used in Confirmation.

Oil has long symbolized strength, healing, consecration, and mission.

The anointing signifies being set apart for Christ and His mission.

Confirmation and Christian Witness

The word “martyr” originally meant witness.

Confirmation strengthens Christians to defend the faith, share the Gospel, live courageously, and remain faithful during trials.

Every confirmed Catholic is called to be a witness to Jesus Christ.

Confirmation and Pentecost

Pentecost is the model for Confirmation.

At Pentecost:

• The Apostles received the Holy Ghost.
• They were strengthened in faith.
• They boldly proclaimed Christ.
• The Church began her public mission.

Confirmation continues that same work in the life of believers.

Common Misunderstandings

Confirmation Is Not Catholic Graduation

Confirmation is not the end of religious formation. It is the beginning of a deeper commitment to Christ.

Confirmation Does Not Make Someone Perfect

The Sacrament gives grace, but Christians must cooperate with that grace.

Confirmation Is More Than a Personal Choice

Confirmation strengthens a gift already received in Baptism.

Confirmation Is Not Pentecostal Emotionalism

The Holy Ghost often works quietly through grace, prayer, virtue, and perseverance.

Key Truths About Confirmation

• Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation.
• Confirmation strengthens baptismal grace.
• Confirmation gives a special outpouring of the Holy Ghost.
• Confirmation deepens our union with Christ.
• Confirmation strengthens our bond with the Church.
• Confirmation equips us for Christian witness.
• Confirmation leaves an indelible spiritual mark.
• Confirmation can only be received once.

What Does This Mean For Me?

God does not call Christians to follow Him by their own strength.

He gives His Spirit to guide, strengthen, and sustain His people.

Confirmation reminds us that every Christian has a mission.

The Holy Ghost equips us to live faithfully, witness boldly, and grow in holiness.

Explore the Sacraments

Continue Learning

Now that you understand Confirmation, the next question is: What is the Eucharist?

Learn about the source and summit of the Christian life and Christ’s Real Presence in the Blessed Sacrament.