This is the only Confirmation Retreat offered. It is therefore required that each candidate attend the Confirmation Retreat. Retreats provide a unique opportunity for the candidates to spend an extended time in discernment and reflect on the gifts of the Spirit and reflect on their relationship with God and their faith life. As the pastor must attest to the bishop that the candidates are ready, all final decisions regarding a candidate’s readiness are evaluated by the pastor and staff. excessive absenteeism lack of desire to be confirmed) where, at the Pastor’s discretion, it might be deemed prudent to temporarily delay the confirming of a candidate until the candidate is deemed ready. We expect that you will make these gatherings a priority and therefore make a sincere effort to adjust your other obligations accordingly. When a class is missed, the candidate loses time for fellowship and prayer as well as the educational material covered that day. Actively participate in Confirmation classes, complete at home assignments as well as any makeup work for activities and classes you were unable to attend.Īttendance at the Confirmation classes is extremely important in preparing the candidates for reception of the sacrament.

It helps to determine the readiness of the candidate to take on the responsibility of a confirmed disciple. The interview with a candidate gives us a chance to meet you face-to-face and to get to know you. Individual interview with a member of the staff.If your family has not been attending Mass regularly in the past, we are confident that by doing so you will notice many benefits to your family by the time Confirmation approaches. When we worship as a community, we build up the Body of Christ. This is also an important way that parents demonstrate to their children the importance they place on the faith they are handing on to their children. Participating in the Eucharistic life of the community is both a privilege and an obligation of baptized Catholics. The Confirmation Candidate (and hopefully the rest of the family) must have a sincere intention of participating in Mass every week. Participate in Mass on Saturday evening or Sunday, every week, and Holy Days of obligation.Please remember that while in many cases we list a minimum requirement for Confirmation, the candidates should be encouraged to make many of these activities a regular part of their faith practices. The following explains each of the Confirmation expectations in detail and in some cases, the reasons the requirements are important to the formation of the candidate. Have sincerely attempted to fulfill the expectations as outlined in this guidebook.Have a sincere desire to receive the sacrament as well as an appreciation of sacramental life.Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the obligations of a practicing member of the Catholic Church.This is usually accomplished through ongoing participation in a Roman Catholic parish or school-sponsored religious education program. Have been adequately catechized (prepared) in the Roman Catholic faith.Be between the ages of twelve and eighteen.

Have received the sacraments of Baptism and Eucharist.

This commitment involves the whole family and we ask that you carefully examine the expectations. The following guide details the requirements and expectations of Good Shepherd Church for those youth enrolled in Confirmation preparation as well as the expectations of parents and sponsors. There are two primary effects from the sacrament of Confirmation: strengthening of one’s bond with the Church, and reception of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “The reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace” (no. While Baptism is the first step of initiation into the life of the Church, Confirmation can be seen as the completion of the Baptismal commitment. What is Confirmation ? Confirmation is one of the Sacraments of Initiation. As you will know, Confirmation preparation involves learning, sharing, serving, fellowship, spiritual growth and fun! You will be given the opportunity to learn more about your Catholic faith and what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. We are looking forward to sharing with you this journey of faith as you prepare to receive the sacrament of Confirmation. Welcome to your second year of Confirmation preparation at Good Shepherd Church.

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