Confirmation

Confirmation is a Sacrament of mature Christian commitment and a deepening of baptismal gifts. It is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation. It is associated with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. "From that time on the apostles, in fulfillment of Christ's will, imparted to the newly baptized by the laying on of hands the gift of the Spirit that completes the grace of Baptism. For this reason in the Letter to the Hebrews the doctrine concerning Baptism and the laying on of hands is listed among the first elements of Christian instruction. The imposition of hands is rightly recognized by the Catholic tradition as the origin of the sacrament of Confirmation, which in a certain way perpetuates the grace of Pentecost in the Church." Very early, the better to signify the gift of the Holy Spirit, and anointing with perfumed oil (chrism) was added to the laying on of hands. This anointing highlights the name "Christian," which means "anointed" and derives from that of Christ himself whom God "anointed with the Holy Spirit." This rite of anointing has continued ever since, in both East and West. For this reason the Eastern Churches call this sacrament Chrismation, anointing with chrism, or myron which means "chrism." In the West, the term Confirmation suggests that this sacrament both confirms baptism and strengthens baptismal grace.

If your child has reached an age to begin preparing for Confirmation, please fill out the form below or contact the Parish Office at (941) 349-4174. In the Diocese of Venice, Bishop Frank Dewane has mandated the Religious Education and "Sacramental Preparation" programs for children receiving First Communion or Confirmation will be a two year process. The preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation will begin in Grade Nine, culminating in the reception of the Sacrament at the end of Grade Ten.