Confirmation

It is called Confirmation because it confirms and strengthens baptismal grace.

As stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1285; “The reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace.  For “by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized’] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of this Holy Spirit.   Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed”.

The essential element of the Sacrament of Confirmation is the anointing of the confirmed (the person being confirmed) with chrism (an aromatic oil that has been consecrated by a bishop), accompanied by the words “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit”.  This seal is a consecration, representing the safeguarding by the Holy Spirit of the graces conferred on the Christian at Baptism.

Confirmation for Youth

At St. Charles Borromeo, Confirmation is received in a special celebration performed by a Bishop when our young people are in the 8th grade.   In order to be confirmed an individual must participate in the religious education program for at least one year prior to the year in which he or she will be confirmed.  

If an individual is beyond the 8th grade and has not received the sacrament, he or she should contact the parish office to explore making the proper arrangements for receiving the sacrament. Parish Office to learn more, 636-946-1893.

Confirmation for Adults

For various reasons, an individual may not have been confirmed while a youth.  Adults, who are not yet confirmed are invited to contact the parish office 636-946-1893 to make arrangements to celebrate this sacrament as part of the OCIA concluding celebration on Holy Saturday.