Download Understanding the Sacrament of Confirmation: A Spiritual Deepening of Baptism and more Slides Latin in PDF only on Docsity! The Sacrament of Confirmation Sacraments of Initiation – Confirmation - 1 What is Confirmation? Confirmation is a sacrament that completes the grace of baptism by: Binding the person more perfectly to the Church. Giving the person an increase in spiritual strength (an increase in grace). Confirmation allows a Christian to share more completely: in the mission of Jesus Christ and in the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Sacraments of Initiation – Confirmation - 4 Jesus promises the outpouring of the Holy Spirit But I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation: sin, because they do not believe in me; righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned. "I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now. But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth. He will not speak on his own, but he will speak what he hears, and will declare to you the things that are coming. He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. Everything that the Father has is mine; for this reason I told you that he will take from what is mine and declare it to you. (Jn 16:7-15) Sacraments of Initiation – Confirmation - 5 Who Can Receive This Sacrament? Requirements for Reception Every baptized person not yet confirmed can receive this sacrament. The age of reason is the reference point for receiving Confirmation in the Latin Rite [Note: In the East Rite Churches Confirmation is administered immediately after Baptism.] In danger of death children should be confirmed even if they have not yet attained the age of discretion “Sacrament of Christian maturity” Confirmation is sometimes called the "sacrament of Christian maturity." Not to be confused with the age of natural growth: The age of the body does not determine the age of the soul. Many children, through the strength of the Holy Spirit they have received, have bravely fought for Christ even to the shedding of their blood. [Thomas Aquinas] Sacraments of Initiation – Confirmation - 6 To Receive Confirmation: One must be in a state of grace. One must have the intention of receiving the sacrament. One must profess the faith. One must be prepared to assume the role of disciple and witness to Christ. One should receive the sacrament of Penance. Confirmation sponsor: Provides spiritual help Can be one of the baptismal godparents – shows unity between the two sacraments. The Minister of Confirmation In the Latin Rite, the ordinary minister of Confirmation is the bishop. If the need arises, the bishop may grant the faculty of administering Confirmation to priests. If a Christian is in danger of death, any priest can give him Confirmation
