Confirmation
Confirmation is a continuance of what has begun at our Baptism: a continuance of the developing awareness of the reality of faith and the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives. At our Baptism faith was conceived: we became part of Christ’s Body, part of his Church. Our Confirmation is the gentle unfolding of what our Baptism means. Ephesians 4:30 (cited in CCC 1296) uses the the word “sealed”.
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
— Ephesians 4:30
But were we not “sealed” at baptism? Not so, according to Acts 8:14-17:
Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samar′ia had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for it had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.
— Acts 8:14-17
We see from the above that new (baptised) Christians evidently still needed to be “sealed” with the Holy Spirit, as St Paul taught in Ephesians 4:30 — this is Confirmation. The video below explains more.
Confirmation for Young People
Details of the parish confirmation preparation programme will be forthcoming. Keep posted for any updates in the parish newsletter.
For any questions, please feel free to email: office@stmarysgosport.org.uk.
Confirmation for Adults
For many adults who missed out on their Confirmation when they were younger and feel that there is no way to rectify the situation we can discuss options towards being well prepared for the Sacrament and to ensure sufficient understanding. This is a serious step on your journey of faith, an encounter with Christ and the Holy Spirit which will enrich your life.
If you would like to find out more, contact the Parish Office or email office@stmarysgosport.org.uk.